What to Expect Your First Time In Jail
Imagine finding yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time. You may be driving home after drinking too much or find yourself in an illegal situation. Then, suddenly, you see the swirling red and blue lights, hear the sirens, and see the officers bursting onto the scene. You suddenly realize that you’re not going to get out of this one: you’re going to jail. If you have never been to jail before, the prospect…
What not to do After You’ve Been Bailed Out
Depending on your circumstances, bail might be the only way for you to get back to your important obligations. Things like work, school, and family matters don’t stop when you’re arrested, so it’s best to take advantage of your bail opportunity so you can return to your life. However, being released on bail comes with some terms you can’t ignore. Misbehaving when you’ve been granted bail is a great way to lose the trust of…
What to do if Your Child is Arrested
No parent wants to hear that their child has been detained, but every parent should be prepared for that possibility. Being arrested is as scary for your kid as it is for you, so here’s how you can help your child after they’ve been detained. Get a Juvenile Defense Attorney Most defense attorneys don’t have the knowledge or experience to represent children in court. The legal process is completely different for children, so look for…
Most Texas Prisons Have No Air Conditioning for Inmates
Jails and prisons aren’t comfortable places to stay, and they aren’t meant to be. Most states take a hands-off approach to regulating the conditions of jails and prisons, which can sometimes be extremely uncomfortable and even dangerous to inmates. Texas is a state known for its summer heat waves which usually exceed 100 degrees, but the state government is opposed to mandating air conditioning in its correctional facilities. If you’ve been arrested and need out…
Tips for Success on Your Upcoming Court Date
Any decisions that are made inside a courtroom are likely to have a tremendous impact on the lives of the people involved. Anyone who is expecting to make an appearance in court should always keep certain important factors in mind. Pivotal moments including a bail hearing take place inside the courtroom and making a strong presentation for your situation and concerns can go a long way towards tipping the outcome of any decisions being made…
How Spending Time in Jail Can Affect Your Children
Anyone who has been arrested, or booked into jail, knows how much of an impact this experience can have on their lives and daily routines. For adults who are caring for kids though, this type of situation can be even more nerve-wracking. All kinds of questions could arise, and it can extremely difficult to remain calm and handle the situation effectively. Fears such as “Who will take care of my child?” or “How fast can…
Just How Terrible Are Houston’s Jails?
Harris County jails are not known for their cleanliness, safety, or quick processing time. Reports from these centers feature sexual assault, overcrowded conditions (referred to by inmates as “the tanks”), hot oven-like temperatures in the summer, and even death. Here are just a few of the sordid but true facts about the condition of Houston’s – specifically Harris County’s – jail system. Overcrowding Harris County jail is known for its overcrowding. The jails became so…
Hurricanes and Inmate Overpopulation: The Impact on Harris County Jail Staff and Inmates
Ever since Hurricane Harvey demolished the Harris County Criminal Justice Center in downtown Houston in 2017, the justice system has been facing a backlog of mounting cases. This has been increasing the pressure put on the Harris County Jail—including its growing population of inmates. Related: A Grim Look Into Prison Life in Harris County Harris County Jail’s Inmate Overpopulation Takes a Toll on Staff According to Darryl Coleman, the chief of the Criminal Justice Command…
5 Expert Tips for First-Time Inmates
Facing incarceration for the first time can be daunting. Here are five crucial tips to help you navigate this challenging experience. 1. Stay Calm and Composed Maintaining your composure is essential. Remaining calm can help you avoid unnecessary trouble and make a positive impression on both inmates and guards. It’s important to breathe deeply, think before you speak or act, and focus on staying level-headed, even in stressful situations. 2. Understand the Rules Familiarize yourself…
A Grim Look Into Prison Life in Harris County
Recently, several publications throughout Houston have been shedding light on concerns surrounding Harris County jails and the Houston Police Department (HPD). One of these major publications is the Houston Chronicle, who recently published several remarkable articles about the treatment of prison inmates within the Harris County jail system. These articles were disturbing as they were eye-opening, and the following consist of just some of the revelations: RELATED: Turning Yourself In? What You Need to Know…