A prison sentence is an uncertain and scary prospect. It could be hard to think that you want to turn yourself in and you don’t know what the process looks like.
Transitioning from free to incarcerated life is complicated and varies depending on your case and your disposition in the court. Read on for what to expect when turning yourself in for a prison sentence.
How to Turn Yourself In
Whether you find yourself facing legal consequences for your actions or simply wish to make amends for past wrongdoings, turning yourself in is a courageous and ethical choice. Let’s look into the intricate process of self-surrender.
Contact the Local Sheriff’s Office
When going to prison, it is important to contact the local sheriff’s office beforehand. They will typically provide information about the process of turning yourself in and any documentation that is required. You should expect tight security upon arrival and are to likely be detained until the booking process is complete.
You will likely be given a uniform to change into and asked for personal information such as your name, address, date of birth, etc. After the booking process is complete, you will be sent to the County Jail and placed in a specific location depending on the charges against you.
Get a Bond
Upon turning yourself in, you can expect to undergo processing by prison staff and to be placed in quarantine for some time to ensure security and to prevent the introduction of contagious illnesses. During processing, you may be asked to provide contact information for family and friends, and you may need to provide identification.
Once you are accepted into the facility, you may need to get a bond. A bond is used to secure your release, and it ensures that if you were to be released on parole or probation you will attend court hearings and return to the prison if ordered.
The amount of the bond will depend on several factors, including the nature of your crime and the length of your sentence. In some cases, the judge may decide to waive the bond or reduce the amount.
Know Your Right to Remain Silent
When going to jail, it is important to know your rights before entering the facility. This right is according to Miranda law. This means that you do not have to answer any questions asked by law enforcement or other correctional officers without a lawyer present.
The Miranda law is important because it ensures that a person who is being held by the police understands their rights and what will happen during their arrest and interrogation.
Turning Yourself In Will Be Advantageous
Turning yourself in, whether it pertains to legal matters, personal relationships, or inner conflicts, is a courageous act that can yield a multitude of advantages. Let’s look into the compelling reasons why embracing accountability can lead to profound benefits.
Avoid Arrest Embarrassment
Turning yourself in can be embarrassing, but it can be much less stressful and less shameful than having an unexpected arrest. Going through the process with the right attitude can help you stay focused and get through the experience.
Increase the Odds of Getting Bail
Turning yourself in may increase your odds of securing a bail bond. Courts are more likely to grant bail to individuals who willingly turn themselves in, rather than those who are arrested by the police. By demonstrating a willingness to cooperate with the legal system, judges may be more likely to grant your request.
Additionally, during a bail hearing, the arresting officers may testify to the defendant’s cooperation with the arrest process. This could also positively affect the decision.
Plea Bargain Advantage
By taking responsibility and admitting guilt, you lessen the severity of the charge or consequences given by the court. This can also reduce the time spent in jail or probation. In addition, a plea bargain can also include special terms or provisions based on the case.
This allows for a degree of flexibility in the ruling as it provides an opportunity for those involved to come to a resolution. This could include:
- reduced fines
- suspended sentences
- the ability to avoid trial
This can be a significant benefit given the time and cost associated with court trials. In cases where the accused has no way of proving innocence, a plea bargain could be the only way to come out of the situation with the best possible result.
What to Expect When You’re In Jail
Stepping into the world behind prison walls can be a daunting and life-altering experience. Knowing what to expect can help ease the uncertainty and prepare you for the challenges ahead.
What You Can Bring
You should expect to be searched before entering the facility, and you will have to leave behind all cell phones, weapons, food, tobacco, drug paraphernalia, and illegal drugs. Though the facility may have specific instructions, generally the only items you will be allowed to bring with you into the facility are:
- necessary prescription medications
- legal documents or papers
- clothing
- basic hygiene supplies
Anything else you bring with you may be confiscated. It is important to be cooperative with the guards and adhere to all of the prison’s regulations to prevent any additional punishment.
Medical Aid
Upon processing, you will be asked if you have any pre-existing medical conditions and be taken to a medical appointment. You will have periodic health screenings throughout your sentence.
Inmates must be seen by medical personnel if they feel ill or have any medical issues. You should also expect access to primary care services, which include routine health exams and treatments for acute and chronic conditions.
Visiting Rights
The exact visitation rights may vary per prison, so it’s important to research the prison’s policy beforehand. Generally, visitors must register in advance, and typically, only family members are eligible. Those who are not on the list will have to go through a process for a visiting approval which also requires them to have a Jail and Inmate Search.
Know What to Expect When Turning Yourself In
Ultimately, when turning yourself in for a prison sentence, it will vary depending on the specifics of your case. Being prepared for the possibility of incarceration and understanding what to expect is the first step in this journey. To learn more, contact a qualified criminal defense attorney today.
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