Can prisons withhold mail?

Incoming or outgoing non-privileged mail may be censored for legitimate security reasons. However, mail may not be censored simply because it is critical of prison officials or because prison officials disagree with its content. Prisons may not ban mail simply because it contains material downloaded from the Internet.

What is considered legal mail for inmates?

Legal Mail is Confidential Mail Mail between an attorney and a state prison inmate/client is given special confidential treatment by the Dept. of Corrections & Rehabilitation, as guaranteed by Penal Code section 2601, subdivision (b), provided conditions are met.

What are the rules for writing a letter to an inmate?

General Rules of Writing an Inmate in Prison

• Write the full name of the prisoner.
• Include the prisoner’s ID number.
• Write your name and the return address on the envelope and in the letter.
• Choose the correct envelope size.
• Don’t put perfume on the letter.
• Don’t decorate the letter in any way.

Is mail delivery a constitutional right?

Interpretation. The Clause has been construed to give Congress the enumerated power to designate mail routes and construct or designate post offices, with the implied authority to carry, deliver, and regulate the mail of the United States as a whole. The First Amendment thus provided a check on the Postal Power.

What is a Rule 39 letter?

• Prison staff will not open or read letters to your solicitor or the courts about legal things unless there is a very good reason to do so. This is called Rule 39 mail.

Can you write dirty letters to inmates?

Swearing is allowed in inmate mail The answer to today’s question is yes, you can swear in prison letters. It is one of the few ways that an inmate’s constitutional right to free speech has been preserved in the institutional setting.

What to say to someone who is incarcerated?

01“Dear Maggie, I am writing to say that I can’t wait for you to get out of jail. There is so much waiting for you outside – great food, wonderful parties, your family. I can’t wait to share all of these things with you. I don’t want you to fret too much about the past.

How do I get an inmate’s CDC number or housing assignment?

To ensure prompt processing the following information should be included on the envelope: To get an inmate’s CDC# or housing assignment, individuals should call the Public Information Officer (PIO) or the inmate locator at the institution (see below for phone numbers).

How much personal property packages can an inmate receive?

Receiving personal property packages is a privilege for an inmate. Refer to the privilege chart for further information. An inmate may receive personal property packages, 30 pounds maximum weight each, per year; exclusive of special purchases and based upon his privilege group, from approved vendors.

How do I contact a state prison inmate by mail?

Individuals are free to contact any state prison inmate by mail. Incoming letters are opened and inspected for contraband and then forwarded to the inmate. To ensure prompt processing the following information should be included on the envelope:

What happens when an inmate is brought to the US?

Upon arrival the inmate will begin an orientation period during which he/she will attend an initial classification hearing to determine the appropriate programming and housing needs for that particular inmate. There can be a waiting period until an inmate can begin to attend school or be assigned to a job.