Rights of prisoners in the U.S.A.
All prisoners have the basic rights needed to survive and sustain a reasonable way of life. Most rights are taken away ostensibly so the prison system can maintain order, discipline, and security.[citation needed] Any of the following rights, given to prisoners, can be taken away for that purpose:
Prisoner may refer to one of the following:
The right to:[1]
- not be punished cruelly or unusually
- due processes
- administrative appeals
- access the parole process (denied to those incarcerated in the Federal System)
- practice religion freely
- equal protection (Fourteenth Amendment)
- be notified of all charges against them
- receive a written statement explaining evidence used in reaching a disposition
- file a civil suit against another person
- medical treatment (both long and short term)
- treatment that is both adequate and appropriate
- a hearing upon being relocated to the mental health facility.
- personal property such as: cigarettes, stationery, a watch, cosmetics, and snack-food
- visitation
- privacy
- food that would sustain an average person adequately.
- bathe (for sanitation and health reasons).
Many rights are taken away from prisoners often temporarily.[citation needed] For example, prison personnel are required to read and inspect all in-going or out-going mail, in order to prevent prisoners from obtaining contraband. The only time a prisoner has a full right to privacy is in conversations with their attorney.
- ^ Staff, L. I. I. (July 15, 2008). "Prisoners' rights". LII / Legal Information Institute. Retrieved May 11, 2019.