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Visitation

What Happens If Your Visiting Application to a Missouri Prison Is Denied (Appeal Steps)

A denied visiting application is frustrating, but Missouri DOC rules give you a clear next step. You can appeal in writing within 30 days. If that appeal is also denied, you can reapply after one year.

• 2 min read Verified from official sources

If your visiting application is denied, the clock starts immediately. Missouri Department of Corrections policy gives you 30 days to send a written appeal letter to: Missouri Department of Corrections, Attn: Deputy Division Director of Adult Institutions, 2729 Plaza Drive, PO Box 236, Jefferson City, MO 65102. Mail it as soon as possible so you don't lose your appeal window.

Quick action: Mark the denial date, copy the denial letter for your records, write your appeal, mail it to the DOC address above, and keep proof of mailing.

Once the DOC receives your appeal, they'll review the information tied to your application, including a criminal history check. When the review is complete, you'll get the final decision in writing. That letter is your official record of the outcome.

Remember: The written decision you receive is the official outcome of your appeal. Hold onto it.

A denial doesn't necessarily mean you're permanently blocked from visiting. Under Missouri DOC rules, visitors who are denied may reapply for visiting status after one year.

At Southeast Correctional Center, every visitor must be pre-approved through the Missouri DOC visiting application. So when you hit the one-year mark and become eligible to reapply, you'll go through that same pre-approval process again before any visit is allowed.

Tips Reduce Chance

  • ✓ Enter the offender’s DOC identification number (DOC ID) correctly.
  • ✓ Fill out every field marked with an asterisk (*).
  • ✓ Double-check your identifying information before you hit submit.
  • ✓ Agree to comply with visiting regulations before submitting the application.

If any part of the application is unclear, reach out to the institutional case manager before you submit. Once you finish and submit the online visiting application, it's electronically sent to the case manager for processing. Getting everything right up front helps avoid delays and problems.

Tip: A criminal history check is part of the review. Be ready to address any past convictions if the appeal process requires clarification.

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