Video Visits at River North: How to Log In, Dress Appropriately, and Avoid Losing Privileges

River North offers two ways to video visit: from home through the GTL system, or at an AFOI Visitor Center. Home visits are convenient, but you're on the hook for your device, internet connection, and keeping the room visit-ready. A visitor center works better if you need a controlled setup - just factor in travel time and an earlier check-in.

Visiting from home? Don't wait until start time to sign in. You need to be logged into GTL 15 minutes before your visit begins. That buffer gives you time to troubleshoot login issues without cutting into your actual visit.

Using an AFOI Visitor Center? Build in even more time. You're required to arrive at least 20 minutes early. Lines happen, check-in can take longer than expected, and showing up late means missing your slot.

Treat a video visit like you're sitting in a supervised visiting room - because you are. You and your loved one need to stay orderly, and staff directions apply even remotely. Keep conversations calm. Anything seen as disruptive can end the visit and jeopardize future ones.

• ✓ Don’t record or film the visit in any way (by you or anyone else)
• ✓ Don’t take pictures or screenshots of the inmate
• ✓ Don’t have inappropriate photos or movies playing in the background
• ✓ Don’t have other technology present during the visit besides the device you’re using to connect (for example, extra phones, tablets, TVs, or computers)

Stick to approved participants and the approved setup. Third-party recording is prohibited, and extra devices in the room aren't allowed. That means no one off-camera helping, watching, or participating through another device.

Dress code applies - even for at-home visits. Clothing must cover from neck to kneecaps, and underwear is required. At a video visitation center, your outer garments and undergarments must be appropriate for your gender. Plan your outfit ahead of time so you don't get turned away.

Only five people can participate at once, including children. If minors are joining, at least one visitor must be an adult (over 18) who is the parent or legal guardian. Count everyone before the visit starts - accidentally exceeding the limit breaks the rules.

Rule violations have real consequences. Break the video visitation rules and you lose privileges for six months. Serious violations can result in a permanent ban. Staff can also end a visit mid-session if rules are broken, and trying to work around regulations can get you denied for future visits.

Some cutoffs are out of your control. If the inmate needs to use the restroom, the visit ends - no makeup time. Keep expectations realistic and make the most of your slot. If you think a visit was ended unfairly or you were suspended by mistake, act fast and focus on the specific rule you believe was misunderstood.

1. Write down what happened right away - note the date/time of the visit, who was present, and what occurred right before the termination or suspension.
2. Identify the exact rule involved - be specific about what you did (or didn’t do), especially around recording, screenshots, extra technology, and who was in the room.
3. Gather any proof you have - for example, confirmation details, device settings, or anything that supports your explanation.
4. Request a review through the appropriate channel - clearly state that you’re asking for the decision to be reviewed and include your timeline and supporting details.
5. Keep your next attempts fully compliant - don’t try to “test” the system while it’s under review; another violation can make the outcome worse.

Previsit Checklist Troubleshoot

• ✓ Log into GTL 15 minutes before your scheduled start time if you’re visiting from home
• ✓ Arrive at least 20 minutes early if you’re using an AFOI Visitor Center
• ✓ Treat the appointment as firm: visits run for the exact scheduled time and fees aren’t refunded for late or missed visits
• ✓ Dress to the standard: clothing from neck to kneecaps, and underwear required

1. Test your camera and microphone early - do it well before the 15-minute login window so you’re not troubleshooting on the clock.
2. Log into the correct GTL account - use the same legal name you registered with, and make sure you can access the visit from the device you plan to use.
3. Control the room - remove extra phones/tablets/TVs and shut down anything that could leave inappropriate content visible in the background.
4. Confirm who will be on the visit - keep it to five people total (including kids), and make sure minors are accompanied by an adult parent/legal guardian.
5. Start simple if you’re having issues - try a quieter room, reduce background noise, and avoid switching devices at the last minute unless you have to.