One of the harsh realities of prison life is the loss of family. For every year spent in prison, the likelihood of divorce increases by 32%. Not only this, but relationships with children and other family of inmates grow weaker when behind bars.
For some inmates, the only hope seems to be in conjugal visits with family. But what are these visits, and what do they really look like?
Here are the basics of how conjugal visits work for prison inmates.
What Are Conjugal Visits?
Conjugal visits are private visits granted to inmates and their family. These visits are in a relatively private setting, away from the prison jail cell.
During these visits, a spouse, children, or legal family members can visit. Non-legal partners, like a girlfriend or boyfriend, aren’t typically granted permission.
Conjugal visits serve the purpose of reuniting the prison inmate with their family, offering a feeling of normalcy away from their day-to-day restrictions.
Rules and Regulations
Unsurprisingly, private visits carry many rules and regulations. This is to keep the inmate, their family, and other inmates safe and out of trouble.
First, it’s important to note that most states don’t offer conjugal visits. Get familiar with local visitation rules and schedules at jailexchange.com.
If your prison allows these private visits, know that there will be precautions taken to prevent drugs and alcohol. Visitors will be screened, such as through a metal detector. Inmates will be thoroughly searched and tested, especially after their conjugal visit.
There will also typically be a background check performed on visiting family. And to further ensure safety and control during the visit, phones and electronic devices typically aren’t allowed.
Location and Accommodations
Family conjugal visits take place on prison grounds, though in a private setting.
The space is designed to look similar to a regular home or apartment. There will likely be a kitchen, a bathroom, and two bedrooms. This is enough space for children to accompany too.
There are usually soaps, towels, dishes, and other basic amenities that you may find in a typical home. Some of these items can also be brought in with permission.
You can also expect there to be some items to make the space feel entertaining and cozy for family, such as games, a TV, and special food not typically allowed in the prison.
What Actually Happens During a Conjugal Visit
TV’s portrayal of conjugal visits often focuses on the intimacy and sexual contact allowed during these visits. That’s likely because this is the only type of visit where sex behind bars is allowed.
In reality, these private visits may involve some physical intimacy, but they tend to be much more focused on family time.
Conjugal visits usually last one to three days. This time is mostly spent talking with family, sharing meals, and relaxing together.
For most inmates, this is an opportunity to experience the feeling of “normal” life again. However, that feeling is sometimes interrupted. For example, inmates are still required to be present for regular headcounts.
Still, conjugal visits are a rare time where prison inmates have privacy and quality time with family.
A Break From Prison Life
Conjugal visits aren’t allowed in many places. But for the states that still allow them, they can be a much-needed break from life behind bars.
That can involve enjoying meals, chatting with family, and sometimes sex.
Perhaps the best part of these visits for inmates is the opportunity to feel “normal” again, forgetting their restrictive life for a couple short days.