What to Expect During a Loved One’s Incarceration in Massachusetts

If someone you love has just been incarcerated in Massachusetts, your emotions might be all over the place. You might feel grief, anger, shame, guilt, confusion—or all of those at once. But at the core of it, you’re here because you care, and you want to be informed.

Attorney Courtney K. Fogarty of Fogarty Law has over a decade of experience as a criminal defense lawyer in Massachusetts. She’s worked with individuals and families during every phase of the legal process—including incarceration and reentry.

We put together this guide to help you understand what happens now and how to stay connected with the people who matter most.

Whether your loved one is in county jail or state prison, read on to learn what to expect in the coming weeks, how to stay connected, and what support systems are available.

Right After Sentencing: Intake, Classification, and Placement

After sentencing, the first few days or weeks can feel like a black hole. You may not hear from your loved one. They may not be able to contact you right away.

That’s because the Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC) has a multi-step intake and classification process.

Your loved one will first go through intake at a temporary facility. There, they’ll be evaluated for things like mental health, physical needs, sentence length, and criminal history. This evaluation determines their classification level (i.e., minimum, medium, or maximum security) and where they’ll be transferred next.

County jail processes are usually faster but follow a similar structure.

 Either way, it’s normal for things to feel unclear at first. Classification can take several days to several weeks, depending on the facility and complexity of the case.

How to Stay in Contact When You’re Not Sure Where to Start

Once your loved one is placed in a facility, they’ll be assigned a DOC ID number. You can use this number to look up their location and send letters, deposit money, or schedule visits.

But how do you find them before you know their DOC ID number? The easiest option is to use VINELink by entering their name. This will tell you which facility they’re located in.

Know that not all Massachusetts jails use the system—only facilities managed by the MA DOC and Essex County use this tool. If they’re in a different county jail, check the individual county’s website or call the facility.

To set up calls, you’ll likely need to create an account with a phone service like Securus, as most MA prisons use prepaid phone systems. You can also write letters—and in many cases, send photos, drawings, or even approved reading material through Amazon.

For more details, review the DOC’s Resources for Family and Friends of Inmates.

Visiting a Massachusetts Jail or Prison

Visits are possible—but you’ll need to follow specific procedures. Each facility has its own schedule, dress code, and approval process.

To get started, you’ll typically:

• Fill out a visitor application form
• Wait for approval (can take up to 2 weeks)
• Schedule your visit through the facility’s designated system
• Bring valid photo ID on the day of your visit

Rules may vary, but many Massachusetts facilities allow contact visits unless a specific restriction is in place. Virtual visits are available in some prisons, especially for long-distance family members.

Supporting Their Health, Safety, and Well-being

Prisons and jails are stressful, isolating environments. Your loved one may have medical needs, mental health concerns, or experience unsafe conditions. While the DOC is responsible for providing care, gaps exist—and family involvement can play a key role.

Massachusetts facilities must offer basic medical and mental health services, but some services require co-pays. If your loved one has specific prescriptions or disabilities, it’s a good idea to notify the facility in writing.

If you’re concerned about their health or safety, you can call the facility or file a concern. You can also reach out to the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL) to get mental health support for yourself—they’re available 24/7.

In urgent cases, you may also want to consult an MA criminal defense lawyer to request a safety transfer or escalate concerns.

You’re Not Alone in This—Support is Available

Even if your loved one has already been sentenced, a defense attorney can still play a critical role. Some situations where legal help is valuable:

• Appealing classification or requesting a lower custody level
• Filing formal grievances for mistreatment or unsafe conditions
• Requesting transfers due to medical, safety, or family considerations
• Preparing for parole or reentry (including referrals to reentry programs)

Because at the end of the day, being there for someone who’s incarcerated is rarely easy. But it matters. Your effort, your care, and your presence can help them survive one of the hardest chapters of their life.

If you have questions, concerns, or just need guidance on what comes next, Fogarty Law is here to help. Based in Bristol County and serving all of Massachusetts, just call (508) 317-0339 today for a free 60-minute consultation to get the support you need.

FAQs About Massachusetts Incarceration

What happens during inmate classification?

After sentencing, the DOC evaluates the inmate’s history, risk level, and medical needs. Based on that, they assign a custody level and decide which facility they’ll serve time in. This process can take days or weeks.

How do I find out their inmate number or DOC ID?

Use VINELink, assuming they’re held in a state-managed facility or one in Essex County. You’ll need their first and last name. For any other county jail, check that county’s sheriff website.

How do I schedule a visit in a Massachusetts facility?

Start by filling out a visitor application for the specific facility. Once approved, you can schedule visits based on the prison’s calendar. ID is required. Details vary, so check the state’s Visiting an Inmate guide.

What kind of medical care is available in MA prisons?

Inmates can access basic physical and mental healthcare. That includes medications, sick calls, and emergency treatment. But gaps in care do happen—if you’re worried, you can contact the facility or file a complaint.

Can children visit inmates in Massachusetts?

Yes. Children can typically visit as long as they are accompanied by an approved adult visitor. Some facilities offer child-friendly areas, but not all. Be sure to check that specific facility’s policy.