What to Expect if You Go to Prison in Georgia
Contents
What to Expect if You Go to Prison in Georgia
Going to prison in Georgia can be an intimidating and scary experience. This article aims to provide an overview of what you can expect if you are sentenced to prison in Georgia, from the day you are arrested through to your release.
The Arrest Process
If you are arrested for a crime in Georgia, the first thing that will happen is you will be taken to jail and “booked.” This means the police will take your fingerprints, photograph you, and record your personal information. You will be allowed to make a phone call to a family member, friend, or attorney during the booking process.
After booking, you will go before a judge who will consider setting bail. If bail is granted, you can be released from jail after paying the bail amount. If not, you will remain in jail until your case goes to trial or is otherwise resolved. Felony crimes like murder often do not qualify for bail.
While in jail awaiting trial, you may be placed in a holding cell or general population. Conditions vary across jails but are generally crowded and unpleasant. You will be provided basic meals, healthcare, and access to attorneys.
The Trial Process
If your case goes to trial, your attorney will argue your innocence or work to get charges reduced. If found guilty, the judge will impose a sentence based on guidelines and laws for that crime. For felonies, this usually means prison time of over one year.
You may choose to accept a plea bargain instead of going to trial. This involves pleading guilty in exchange for a lesser sentence recommended by the prosecutor. Be sure to discuss options thoroughly with your attorney.
Classification and Diagnostics
After sentencing, you will be transferred to a diagnostics facility run by the Georgia Department of Corrections. Here they will:
- Conduct medical, dental, and mental health screening
- Document tattoos and scars
- Perform an educational assessment
- Review your criminal history and behavior to classify your security level
This process takes 4-6 weeks. You will then be transferred to a state prison facility to serve your sentence.
State Prisons in Georgia
Georgia has a variety of state prison facilities ranging from minimum to maximum security. Which you are sent to depends on your classification level:
- Minimum security – for inmates with minor offenses and good behavior
- Medium security – the most common, focused on work programs
- High security – for violent offenders with behavioral issues
- Maximum security – for high escape risks with assault histories
Higher security prisons have more restrictions, closer supervision, and fewer privileges. Your classification can be adjusted over time based on your behavior.
Daily Life in Prison
Once at your assigned prison, you will experience a highly structured daily routine. A typical day may include:
- Morning wake up call and breakfast
- Work or vocational programs
- Lunch
- More work or classes
- Dinner
- Free time for recreation, TV, phone calls
- Evening lock down and lights out
You will be assigned a counselor who creates a personalized program based on your needs. This may include work assignments, education, counseling, or substance abuse treatment. You are expected to follow rules and participate in activities.
Living Conditions in Prison
Prison facilities in Georgia tend to be overcrowded. You will likely share a small cell with one or more inmates and have little privacy or personal space. Health care is provided but limited.
Georgia prisons maintain lists of approved personal property inmates can have in their cell. This includes things like books, photos, radios, and hygiene items. There are restrictions on items allowed.
You are issued standard prison uniforms and allowed to purchase snacks and other items from the commissary. Prison jobs pay very small hourly wages allowing you to afford commissary items.
Safety in Prison
Violence, gang activity, and contraband drugs exist in prisons. Use common sense, avoid conflicts, and alert staff to threats or illegal activity. Do not accept gifts or favors from other inmates. Prison politics and debts can be dangerous.
If you feel immediately threatened, yell for help. Defend yourself only as a last resort. Weapons will make your situation much worse. Stay in well-lit and high-traffic areas if you have concerns.
Visitation Rules in Georgia Prisons
Visitation policies vary by facility but generally allow:
- 2-hour visits on weekends and holidays
- Special extended visits for family traveling long distances
- Video visitation sessions if facilities have that technology
All visitors must be on your approved list. Minors require guardian supervision. Dress codes and security procedures apply. Physical contact is limited.
Transitioning Out of Prison
If eligible based on your sentence, you may transfer to a transitional center 6-12 months before release. These facilities help inmates re-integrate through work release jobs and community contacts. You will be supervised but able to start transitioning back to normal life.
Once released, you will likely have parole or probation terms to follow. Make sure you understand all conditions and check in as required or you could end up back in prison.
Going to prison in Georgia is a difficult experience, but the information in this article will help you know what to expect. Focus on good behavior and self-improvement while serving your time. The end goal is transitioning back to being a productive member of society.
Sources:
https://www.georgiacriminallawyer.com/what-to-do-if-you-are-charged-with-a-felony-in-georgia
https://www.blacklawoffices.com/incarceration-in-georgia
https://www.pagepate.com/what-happens-when-someone-is-arrested-in-georgia/