It's just the framework 15 key points of the guide I'm working on check back in this article for updates or a link to the new guide.
1. Inmate Locator and GDC Offender Search
Explain how to find your loved one using the official GDC offender search site.
Include the link and how to search by name, birthdate, or offender number.
Show what the status fields mean (“Diagnostic,” “Transferred,” “On Hold,” “Pending Parole Review”).
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2. Mail, Packages, and Approved Vendors
GDC uses a strict mail screening system.
Detail what can and cannot be mailed (no stickers, glitter, tape, or Polaroids).
Approved book/magazine vendors (e.g., Amazon, Barnes & Noble — must ship directly).
Explain how Christmas or quarterly packages work and the approved vendors list (Access Securepak, Walkenhorst’s, etc.).
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3. Phone Calls and Video Visits
How to set up GTL or JPay accounts.
Expected costs per minute.
How to get added to the approved call list (the inmate must submit your name and number).
How to block/unblock numbers and what happens if calls drop.
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4. Money Deposits (Trust Accounts)
Step-by-step for sending money through JPay, Western Union, or MoneyGram.
Daily and monthly limits.
Warning about scams — only use approved deposit methods.
Explain how funds are divided if restitution or fines are owed (some funds may be automatically deducted).
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5. Visitation Rules
Visitation approval process (background check form, processing time).
Dress code specifics for each facility.
Items allowed in the visiting area.
How to schedule a visit (some use phone lines, others use an online scheduler).
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6. Medical Requests and Emergencies
How inmates request medical attention (“sick call” forms).
Family escalation steps: call the facility’s Health Services or the GDC Office of Health Services.
What to include when writing to advocate for care (inmate name, GDC number, facility, description of condition).
HIPAA limits — when medical staff can legally share information with family.
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7. Parole and Sentence Information
Role of the Georgia State Board of Pardons and Paroles — it’s separate from GDC.
How to check parole eligibility dates online.
How to submit a support letter to the Parole Board (timing, tone, and mailing address).
Explain that parole decisions are discretionary and not guaranteed.
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8. Grievance, Ombudsman, and Legal Support
GDC grievance process (informal grievance → formal grievance → central office appeal).
Contact info for the GDC Ombudsman and when to use it.
Legal aid contacts (Southern Center for Human Rights, Georgia Justice Project).
When and how to document serious issues (use certified mail and keep copies).
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9. Emergency Contacts and Death Notifications
Who gets called if there’s a serious injury, illness, or death in custody.
Why it’s critical to have correct next-of-kin info on file.
How to verify funeral arrangements or claim personal property afterward (sad but necessary info for families).
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10. Reentry and Parole Preparation
How to start preparing early (ID documents, reentry programs, reentry coordinators).
Available classes or programs (GED, substance abuse, vocational training).
What families can do before release: housing letters, job offers, community support documentation.
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11. Faith and Chaplain Services
Chaplain’s role and how families can contact them.
How to send religious materials (must come from approved publishers).
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12. Special Populations
Separate guidance for:
Women (Pulaski & Lee Arrendale prisons)
Youthful offenders (under 25)
Elderly or medically vulnerable inmates
Protective custody / transgender inmates — how classification and housing are handled under PREA policies.
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13. Complaint and Oversight Agencies
Georgia Department of Corrections – Ombudsman & Inmate Affairs.
Georgia Office of the Inspector General.
U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division (for pattern or practice complaints).
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14. What Family Should Document
Create a simple “incident log” template:
Date/time, what happened, who said what, who was contacted.
Copies of grievances, letters, and emails.
This record can protect your loved one later if something goes wrong.
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15. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Sending unapproved items in the mail (causes mail bans).
Discussing other inmates on phone calls (can lead to call suspension).
Not keeping track of funds — double-check commissary deductions.
Assuming every facility operates the same — always verify local rules.
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