What Happens When You Arrive for an In‑Person Visit at SCI Somerset
Visiting someone at SCI Somerset is straightforward once you know what to expect at arrival. Here's a quick checklist and walkthrough to help you avoid delays and turnaways.
Before you leave home, double-check that the info in your DOC Inmate Visitation System (IVS) registration matches your ID exactly. Staff use that registration to verify you're on the approved visitor list. Any mismatch can hold things up or delay your visit.
Watch the email linked to your IVS account. The system sends automatic notifications whenever your account status changes or a scheduled visit is updated - that's where you'll catch anything that might affect your trip.
Plan your ride carefully: There is no waiting area on site. If someone comes with you but isn’t visiting, they’ll need to leave the facility grounds.
Vehicle Rules
- ✓ Lock your vehicle while on prison property.
- ✓ Keep windows rolled up/closed.
- ✓ Secure equipment and items in the vehicle (for example, ladders and toolboxes).
Your vehicle can be searched while on facility grounds. Don't bring anything you wouldn't want examined.
Everyone gets screened at arrival - including children. If you're bringing kids, build in extra time so the whole group can get through together.
You'll pass through a metal detector before entering the visiting area. No exceptions - you won't get in without completing this screening.
A few limits to know once you're cleared: up to four visitors can join a single in-person visit. Each inmate may receive up to four contact visits per month, including one weekend visit. Visits are guaranteed to last at least one hour.
Affection rules: A brief hug and kiss are allowed at arrival and departure. Excessive displays of affection are not permitted.
Security rules apply the moment you enter the property - starting with your vehicle, which can be searched. Take the rules seriously. Violations can get your visit denied on the spot, and repeated issues may result in suspended visiting privileges.
- Check your IVS email - IVS sends automatic email notifications for status changes to your account or visits, and cancellations/changes are often communicated there.
- Look for visit status updates - confirm whether your scheduled visit is still active before you try again.
- Contact the facility for next steps - if you’re still unsure why you were turned away, reach out to confirm what needs to be corrected before you reschedule.
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