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CRIMINAL DEFENSE FAQ
Jails and Prisons: Types and Kinds
Just as there are many different types of crimes that may be committed, there are many different ways
a person may be punished for committing a crime. The following is a primer on some of the types and kinds of jails and prisons,
and other forms of confinement in America.
Jails and Prisons
- Many convicted criminals are sentenced to serve time in jail or prison. Generally speaking, prisons are institutions
run by the federal or state government. Jails, on the other hand, are institutions run or utilized by cities or counties.
- The actual setting of any jail or prison varies according to the type of inmates and the rules of the particular
state or federal jurisdiction. While all inmates are entitled to basic necessities, such as food, water, and toilet facilities,
some inmates are also entitled to privileges such as keeping radios, televisions, books, and "extra" food in their cells.
In addition, most inmates are entitled to have contact with other prisoners, limited access to an outside exercise yard, the
use of indoor exercise facilities, the use of a library, and other similar activities. Many jails and prisons offer "employment"
to able-bodied inmates. In most situations, the employment is menial labor such as making electrical cables or license plates
for the government.
- Most inmates are also allowed to have visits from family, friends, and their attorneys, although the scope
of this contact is determined by the security level and rules of the institution.
- For most inmates, good behavior in prison or jail is rewarded by giving credit against a sentence and may
allow inmates to leave the facility before their actual sentence expires.
Note: With limited exceptions, only inmates who are convicted of violating federal
laws are sent to federal prisons. Most inmates who are convicted of violating state or local laws are sent to state prisons
or city or county jails.
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Web Resources
Legal
Business and Finance
Government
General
News and Media
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Professional
Associations &
Memberships:
American Trial Lawyers Association,
National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers,
Washington State Trial Lawyers Association,
Washington State Criminal Defense Lawyers Association.
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