How to Contact an Inmate at Facility

VADOC offers at-home video visitation, so you can connect from home instead of traveling to the facility. You can use a home computer, a tablet, or an Android smartphone, as long as your device meets the current requirements for the video visit system.

Phone calls from VADOC facilities run through ConnectNetwork by Global Tel*Link (GTL). All calls are recorded and monitored, except for properly verified attorney calls. If you need a confidential legal conversation, that "verified attorney call" distinction is critical. Confirm the exact process before discussing anything sensitive.

Steps to Follow

• ✓ Confirm your loved one is eligible for at-home video visitation at their facility
• ✓ Make sure you have a supported device available (home computer, tablet, or Android smartphone)
• ✓ Plan to be logged into the video visit system early (VADOC guidance mentions being logged in 15 minutes before the visit starts)

• ✓ Ask your loved one to confirm they have phone privileges and that your number is allowed
• ✓ Expect calls to come through ConnectNetwork by Global Tel*Link (GTL)
• ✓ Assume calls are recorded and monitored, and keep that in mind when you talk
• ✓ If you are an attorney (or arranging a legal call), confirm how the facility verifies attorney calls so they are treated as confidential

Before you count on at-home video visitation, confirm a few things that can vary by location and change over time. First, verify that at-home video visits are currently offered at the specific facility and that your loved one qualifies to use them. Then check the current device and software requirements for your home computer, tablet, or Android smartphone. You'll also need to complete any registration or account setup before you can get on the schedule. If there are scheduling rules (like when appointments open or how far ahead you can book), get those details in writing from official VADOC resources or the facility directly.

For phone calls, confirm the basics with the facility or VADOC resources: that inmate phone service at that location runs through ConnectNetwork by GTL, and whether any restrictions affect you (like who can be called and when). VADOC phone rules can include an approved call list maintained by the inmate, with a limit of 15 numbers. You can refuse collect or debit calls if you don't want to accept them. If you need a call treated as confidential legal communication, verify the exact steps for a "properly verified" attorney call, since that's the one exception to recording and monitoring.