What Video Visits Actually Cost at Duffield Jail — per-minute pricing and the no-refund rule
Video visits can be a lifeline when you can't visit in person. But at Duffield, the pricing and refund rules are strict—miss your session or lose your connection, and you're out the money. Here's what you need to know about costs before you schedule.
Remote video visits at Duffield cost $0.33 per minute. That adds up fast if you're scheduling visits regularly.
Sessions run 15 minutes. At $0.33 per minute, a full session costs about $4.95.
The clock starts the moment the video connects - not when you start talking. Be ready before you hit connect, because all 15 minutes are billable once the session begins.
Duffield's policy is straightforward: miss your scheduled video visit, and you won't get a refund. Don't book until you're certain you can make it.
No-refund warning: If you lose internet connection during the video visitation session, you won’t be allowed to reconnect - and no refund will be issued.
Plan Avoid
- ✓ Use a stable internet connection (wired or strong Wi‑Fi) before you start the visit
- ✓ Test your device (camera, microphone, speakers) ahead of time so you’re not troubleshooting after the session connects
- ✓ Close other apps or downloads that can cause lag or drop your connection mid-visit
- ✓ Pick a quiet spot where you can stay connected for the full 15 minutes without interruptions
- ✓ Schedule at a time you can fully attend so you don’t risk a no-show charge
You'll need money in your account before the visit starts. Duffield requires a pre-paid Smart Communications account for remote video visits and electronic messaging. Set yours up at SmartInmate.com or by calling 1-888-253-5178, then make sure your balance covers the per-minute charges.
Having billing or account issues? Contact Smart Communications - they handle the pre-paid accounts and can help with funding questions, charges, or technical problems. Reach them at 888-253-5178 or through SmartInmate.com.
Set expectations: Support can help with account issues, but Duffield's no-refund policy still applies. No-shows don't get refunds, and if your internet drops mid-session, you can't reconnect or get your money back.
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