How to Know What to Expect When First Incarcerated

Prison confinement poses a challenging ordeal, but knowing what to expect from the incarceration process and preparing for the experience can ease your transition. Read on.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access (if permitted)
• Socks (if permitted)
• An attorney

Prepare to Be Incarcerated for the First Time

1. Prepare yourself mentally for the culture shock of incarceration. Nights will likely the hardest, especially at first. Maintaining a calm demeanor can help you get through this transition period.
2. Know your rights as a prisoner as outlined by the American Civil Liberties Union (see Resources below). These rights include access to medical care and humane treatment. This is especially important should you need to file a grievance.

Know What Procedures to Expect When First Incarcerated

3. Inform the processing official if you're carrying anything that may be considered contraband (such as medications) since a strip search prior to incarceration is common protocol at many correctional facilities. If you don't, you could face charges of introducing prisoner contraband into the facility, which can be a felony.
4. Keep your socks if you are allowed. Standard prison garb is usually an orange jumpsuit with either a pair of flip-flops or pull-on canvas shoes, and cells tend to be kept cold for 2 reasons: to prevent the spread of germs, and to keep tempers in check.
5. Prepare to be assigned an ID number and have your picture taken. Try to look steady, but don't show emotions. If you smile or look angry, you may earn a quick reputation.
6. Remain diligent and keep your demeanor. You may be detained in a receiving area for a day or two before cell assignment, and during this time you may come into contact with violent offenders.
7. Exercise your right to be silent. Avoid discussing your case with prison staff or other inmates, especially if a trial or appeal is pending.
8. Arrange for legal representation if you are being held for trial and haven't already done so. Remember, if you cannot afford an attorney, the court must appoint one.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that prison is home to some violent predators. Never lose sight of the fact that your personal safety may be at risk and conduct yourself accordingly.
• Tear up return addresses on mail and prevent other inmates from seeing phone numbers dialed when using telephone privileges. Otherwise, inmates could attempt to contact your family members.