In part one of this multi-part blog series, we went over some of the standard inmate rights afforded to all prisoners incarcerated in American jails or prisons. While these facilities are meant for punishment, prisoners have numerous rights that cannot be infringed upon while administering this punishment of incarceration.

At Beehive Bail Bonds, we’re here to not only provide 24/7 bail bond services, but also assist families with defense attorneys and numerous other areas of expertise when it comes to advocating for their friends or loved ones in jail. In today’s part two of our series, we’ll go over a few additional rights to inmates at both the federal and state level.

Complaints and Access to Courts

While inmates are confined to a cell during the extent of their incarceration, this does not mean they are silenced completely. Specifically, all have the right to voice or note any complaints they may have regarding the jail or prison conditions, how they’re being treated or any related area.

Not only do they have this right on its own, they have the right to make these complaints without fear of reprisal from guards or jail staff. They also have the right to court access to voice these complaints, if applicable.

Free of Sexual Harassment

No matter the inmate gender or status, all have the right to be free at all times from sexual harassment – not only from other prisoners, but also from guards and staff. This includes not just aggression but also sexual innuendo, suggestions or any other type of action that might be considered harassment.

Disabled Inmates

Any inmate of a jail or prison who is disabled in any way will be protected by the ADA, or Americans with Disabilities Act. They must be given the proper medical attention based on their condition and its resulting needs, plus adequate housing and access to proper facilities. This is an area inmates or their loved ones should speak to jail or prison staff about directly to ensure compliance.

Medical and Mental Health

In addition, all inmates regardless of health status have the right to proper medical and mental healthcare. This includes everything from standard care and checkups to emergency care and special treatments when required. Any such special treatments should not come with a fee of any kind. For female inmates, geriatric inmates, inmates under 18 and any inmates with special needs, treatment sensitive to their needs is a right, not a privilege.

For more on the kinds of rights afforded to inmates in jail or prison, or to learn about any of our bail bond services, speak to the staff at Beehive Bail Bonds today.