Correctional Facilities Key Terms

Discover pertinent correctional facility terminology and definitions

By Nikki Davis

Correctional facilities key terms can be useful for those planning to work in the field, those who have loved ones incarcerated, those who do contract work with the facilities and more. Understanding the terminology, their meanings and the inherent risks associated with this industry all will help better prepare you for what is in store when it comes to working with correctional facilities.

Correctional facilities key terms differ from terms describing people to rights to safety and more. Understanding the words and being able to use them in the context of conversation will help you in both social settings and in dealing with professionals.

Inmates, residents

Inmates, sometimes known as residents, are the people who reside at correctional facilities. Inmates are often classified and housed based on threat level at the facility.
Try: Learn about inmates from the Florida Department of Corrections.

Detoxification

Detoxification is the removal of toxins from the body. Often detoxification involves removing drugs or alcohol from the system in order to ensure a safe and comfortable correctional facility stay for both the prisoner and the other inmates.
Try: Look at the Massachusetts Alcohol and Substance Abuse Center Department of Correction facility.

Residential treatment

Residential treatment is when a patient or inmate is given different treatment, for example for a substance abuse issue, but then returns to his or her regular bed within the facility at night.
Try: Learn about the difference in residential correctional facilities versus other correctional facility types from the Substance Abuse and Mental Services Administration.

Parole eligibility

Parole eligibility is determined after a given amount of time has been served on a correctional facility or prison sentence. The parole board can determine if ample time has been served and whether or not the accused is ready to be released back into the community.
Try: Find out about parole eligibility in the New Jersey State Parole Board.

Incarceration

Incarceration is the detention of a person in jail, correctional facility or prison.
Try: Find out more about incarceration from The Sentencing Project.

Writs of habeas corpus

The writs of habeas corpus is the right to seek relief from unlawful detention of yourself or another person. It serves to protect you from harming yourself or being harmed by the judicial system. It is an important instrument for safeguarding individuals' freedom against arbitrary state action.
Try: Discover more about the writs of habeas corpus from TheFreeDictionary.