Special visits are those conducted outside the parameters of the established visit program. Circumstances under which special visits may be granted include, but shall not be limited to:

• When a visitor has traveled a distance in excess of 150 miles one way

• Where the inmate receives infrequent family visits, less than two per quarter year; and

• Where other correctional goals or rehabilitation needs of the inmate indicate the need for special visiting privileges

All requests for special visits shall be initiated 72 hours in advance, by the inmate through his unit team via Form 9. The unit team shall answer the Form 9 with an approval or disapproval 24 hours prior to the scheduled visit.

The inmate's respective unit team shall investigate the request, and evaluate the need for special visiting privileges.

Inmate requesting special visiting for religious purposes and pre-marital counseling shall submit a Form 9 directly to the Chaplain for an approval or disapproval.

Special visits previously approved by the unit team may only be disapproved by the Warden, one of the Deputy Wardens, or the shift captain.

A record of all approved and disapproved special visits shall be maintained in the inmate's unit team file.

In addition to special visits, the visiting OIC may grant a courtesy visit when, in his or her judgment, the granting of said visit would be in accordance with the visiting philosophy of the Department of Corrections and the Lansing Correctional Facility. Normally a visitor will have to have traveled a distance of 150 miles or more to be considered for a courtesy visit.