Chesterfield-jail-visitation for professional visitors happens on a first-come, first-served basis from Monday to Friday. You can visit between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Lawyers, clergy, and social workers must show a photo ID. You will go through a quick security check. Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your 30-minute meeting. If you need to meet someone at night or on weekends, you must get a signed paper from the office. Parents and legal guardians started in-person visits again on March 2, 2022. These visits last 15 minutes. They happen on the third floor. You must wear a mask that follows CDC rules. Bring a birth certificate or court paper to prove you are the guardian. Sign in at the security desk when you get there. Use the GTL online system to book your spot. This system opens 48 hours before the visit. Call 804-318-8017 to check your time.
Professional visitation rules
Professional visitors include people like lawyers and doctors. These people help inmates with legal or health needs. You do not need an appointment for daytime visits. Just show up between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on weekdays. The staff checks every visitor for safety. You cannot bring cell phones or bags into the meeting area. Leave these items in your car or a locker. If you are a social worker, bring your work ID and a state ID. Each meeting lasts 30 minutes. If you have more than one person to see, you might have to wait. The jail wants to keep everyone safe. They check your ID every time you come. If the jail is on lockdown, visits might stop. Call ahead if there is bad weather or a holiday. This saves you a long drive if the jail is closed to visitors.
How to use GTL for video visits
Chesterfield-jail-visitation uses the GTL system for video calls. Every inmate gets one 25-minute video call each week. Up to four people can join this call from home. The jail has five kiosks on site for these visits. These kiosks work Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. You must make a GTL account 48 hours before you want to talk. Upload a clear photo of your ID to the website. Your internet must be fast enough for 720p video. If your video is blurry, the call might drop. The system checks your ID to make sure you are allowed to talk. You can see available times once you log in. Pick a time that works for you and the person in jail. The system sends a text or email to tell you the time is set. Do not be late for the video start. If you miss the start, you lose your time for that week.
Rules for parents and guardians
Parents and legal guardians have special rules for seeing young people or residents. These visits are 15 minutes long. You must go to the third floor for these meetings. Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth. The jail follows CDC rules to keep people from getting sick. Bring papers that show you are the parent or guardian. A birth certificate is the best paper to bring. If you have a court order, bring the one with the judge’s signature. Sign your name at the front desk. The staff will look at your papers and your ID. Use the GTL system to pick a time two days early. This keeps the lobby from getting too crowded. If you do not have an appointment, you cannot go upstairs. Stay in your seat in the waiting room until they call your name. Follow all directions from the officers on the third floor.
Out of state visitor requests
If you live far away, you can ask for a longer visit. This is for people driving from other states. Call 843-623-9713 to ask for this. If they say yes, you can visit for two hours on a Saturday. This happens between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. You must send proof of your trip. Send a copy of your gas receipts or hotel booking. Also send your ID and the booking number for the inmate. The jail needs this 72 hours before you arrive. Once they check your facts, they will send you a letter. Bring this letter with you to the jail. Without the letter, you only get the standard short visit. This special rule helps families who cannot come every week. It makes sure you get enough time after a long drive. Only people who live very far away get this extra time. Local residents must follow the regular weekday schedule.
Required dress code for all visitors
The jail has a strict dress code. You must wear the right clothes or you cannot enter. Do not wear clothes with gang signs or colors. Do not wear shirts without sleeves. Your clothes should not be see-through or too short. Do not wear hats inside the building. Leave your jewelry at home or in your car. Only wear simple rings like a wedding band. If your clothes are too tight, the staff will ask you to leave. This rule applies to men, women, and children. The jail wants to keep the area professional and calm. Wear shoes that cover your toes. No flip-flops or sandals. If you are not sure about an outfit, pick something else. It is better to wear plain, simple clothes. If you get sent away for your clothes, you might lose your visit for that week. The staff makes the final choice on what is okay to wear.
Safety and security checks
Everyone who enters the jail goes through a security check. This is like the check at an airport. You will walk through a metal detector. The staff will check your bags if you are a lawyer. Regular visitors cannot bring any bags inside. Empty your pockets before you walk through the machine. Do not bring metal objects if you can help it. If the machine beeps, the staff will use a hand wand to check you. First-time visitors must pass a background check. This check goes through the Virginia State Police. It takes about 72 hours to finish. Do this before you try to book a visit. If you have a warrant, do not come to the jail. The staff will check your name in the computer system. If you have a criminal record, you might be denied. Stay calm and follow all orders from the jail staff during the check.
Sending care packages to inmates
You can send items to inmates through the “My Care Pack” program. This is the only way to send snacks or clothes. You cannot bring items to the jail yourself. Use the official vendor website to pick out items. You can send socks and basic soap. You can also send snacks like chips or cookies. All items must be on the approved list. The jail checks every box that comes in. If you try to send something not on the list, the inmate will not get it. Each inmate has a limit on how much they can receive. Check the jail website for the list of prices and items. This program helps inmates feel better while they are away. It also keeps the jail safe because the vendor sends the items directly. You need the inmate’s full name and booking number to order. Pay with a credit card or debit card on the vendor’s site.
Inmate phone call system
Inmates get three minutes of free phone time when they arrive. This lets them tell family where they are. After they move to a regular cell, calls cost money. These calls are “collect calls.” This means the person who answers the phone pays for the call. Each call can last up to 30 minutes. In late 2025, the jail will start a new debit system. This will let inmates pay for calls using a balance on their account. You can put money on their account online. Do not use three-way calling. If the system hears a third person, it will cut the call. The jail records all calls for safety. Do not talk about illegal things on the phone. If an inmate breaks the rules, they lose their phone time. Calls can only happen during certain hours of the day. Most phones in the cells turn off at night.
Official location and contact details
The jail is at 6900 Mimms Drive, Chesterfield, VA 23832. This building is part of the county complex. You can call the main desk at 804-748-1476. They are open 24 hours a day. If you have a medical question about an inmate, call 804-748-1477. The medical staff can tell you if an inmate is okay. They cannot give out private health facts, but they can take messages. If you have questions about the law or court dates, call 804-717-6702. The Records Division handles paperwork. If you need a copy of a record, you must mail a request. Include a copy of your ID and a signature from a notary. It takes five days to get your papers back. Use the main jail number to find out if someone was just arrested. They can tell you the bond amount and the charges.
Background check for new visitors
You must pass a background check before your first visit. This is a law in Virginia. Go to the Virginia State Police website to start. You will fill out a form with your name and birth date. You also need to give your social security number. The jail needs to see if you have a history of bad behavior in jails. This check must be done 72 hours before you walk in the door. If you show up without a finished check, you will be turned away. The jail staff can see your check results in their computer. You do not need to bring a paper copy, but it helps if there is a mistake. This check keeps the inmates and the staff safe. It makes sure no one brings trouble into the jail. If you are on probation, you might need your officer’s permission to visit.
How to schedule using ViaPath
ViaPath is the new name for the GTL visitor system. Go to the website to create your user profile. You will need an email address. Pick a password that you can remember. Add the inmate to your list by searching for their name or ID. Once you find them, you can see the calendar. Green boxes show times that are open. Red boxes show times that are full. Pick a time and click confirm. The system will send you a message right away. You can change your time if you need to. Do this at least 12 hours before the visit starts. If you cancel late, it might count as your visit for the week. This system helps you avoid waiting in long lines at the jail. You know exactly when you will talk to your loved one. Keep your login data safe so no one else uses your account.
Conduct rules during the visit
You must behave well during your visit. Stay in your seat at all times. Do not yell or use bad words. If you are using a video kiosk, stay on the screen. Do not let other people jump into the video call if they are not signed up. You can have four people total. No food or drinks are allowed in the visitation area. If you bring a baby, you can have one bottle and one diaper. Do not try to pass items to the inmate. If you touch the glass too much, the guard will tell you to stop. If you break any rules, the guard will end the visit. You might not be allowed to come back for a long time. Treat the staff with respect. They are there to keep you safe. If you have a problem, ask for the jail supervisor. Their number is 804-748-1829.
Checking inmate status online
You can find out if someone is in jail by using the online portal. Go to the Chesterfield County Sheriff’s website. Click on the inmate search link. Type in the last name of the person. The system will show a list of names. Click the right name to see the details. You will see the booking photo and the date they went to jail. It also shows what they are accused of doing. You can see the bond amount. This tells you how much money you need to get them out. The list updates every hour. If you do not see a name, they might have been moved. They could be at a different jail or went to court. If the person was just arrested, wait two hours for the computer to update. The staff at the jail can also help if the computer is not working.
Grounds for losing visit privileges
Visiting a jail is a privilege, not a right. The jail can take this away if you do not follow rules. Using drugs or drinking before a visit will get you banned. If you try to sneak in a phone or a knife, the police will arrest you. Fighting with other visitors in the lobby is not allowed. Inmates can also lose their visits if they break jail rules. If an inmate gets into a fight, they might lose phone and visit time for a month. If the jail has a health emergency, they might close all visits. This is to keep people from getting sick. Always check the jail website before you leave your house. If your name is on a stay-away order, you cannot visit. The computer will flag your ID and the guards will ask you to leave. Follow all laws to keep your ability to see your loved one.
Helpful contact facts
Address: 6900 Mimms Drive, Chesterfield, VA 23832
Main Phone: 804-748-1476
Medical Line: 804-748-1477
Records: 804-717-6702
Visitation Setup: 804-318-8017
Hours: Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Professional)
Video Kiosk Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following questions help you know more about the rules at Chesterfield jail. These details cover scheduling, ID requirements, and what to do if things go wrong. Knowing these facts helps you have a smooth visit without any problems at the security gate.
How do I set up my first visit?
To set up your first visit, you must start with a background check. This is done through the Virginia State Police. It ensures you do not have any active warrants or a history that makes you a risk to the jail. Once you pass this check, which takes about three days, you must create a profile on the GTL or ViaPath website. You will need to upload a photo of your government ID. This can be a driver’s license or a passport. The image must be clear so the staff can see your face and name. After your account is approved, you can search for the inmate using their booking number. Pick a time slot from the calendar that is marked as available. You will get a confirmation message once the time is locked in. If you are a parent or guardian, you must also bring proof of your relationship to the resident. This includes birth certificates or legal court orders. Always arrive at the jail at least 15 minutes before your time starts to sign in and go through security.
Can I visit if I live in another state?
Yes, people living in other states can ask for special visit times. The jail knows it is hard to drive a long way for a short meeting. You can call 843-623-9713 to talk about your situation. You will need to provide proof that you live far away. This proof can be your ID card with an out-of-state address. You may also need to show receipts for your travel, like gas or a hotel stay. If the jail staff approves your request, you can get a two-hour visit on a Saturday. These visits happen between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. You must have the inmate’s booking number ready when you call. This special time is not guaranteed and depends on how many other people are visiting that day. You must still follow the dress code and pass the security check. It is best to call at least a week before you plan to travel. This gives the staff enough time to look at your paperwork and send you a confirmation. Without a confirmed Saturday slot, you will have to follow the standard weekday rules.
What items are banned during a visit?
Many items are banned to keep the jail safe. You cannot bring any electronic devices like cell phones, tablets, or smartwatches. These must stay in your car or a locker in the lobby. Do not bring any bags, purses, or backpacks into the visitation room. Food and drinks are also not allowed. If you have a small child, you can bring one clear bottle and one diaper. Do not wear any jewelry except for a simple wedding ring. No keys or pocket knives are allowed past the security desk. You should also avoid bringing paper or pens unless you are a lawyer. If you have a medical device like a pacemaker, tell the staff before you walk through the metal detector. They will use a hand wand to check you instead. If you try to sneak in a phone or drugs, you will be arrested and banned from the jail for life. The guards check everyone carefully to make sure no dangerous items enter the area where inmates are held. Staying simple and bringing nothing is the best way to pass the check quickly.
How do the video kiosks work?
Video kiosks are computers used for talking to inmates. There are five kiosks inside the jail lobby. You can also use the system from your home computer. On-site kiosks are available from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays. To use them, you must have a GTL account. When it is your time to visit, sit at the kiosk and log in with your name. The inmate will be at a similar kiosk inside their housing unit. You will see and hear each other on the screen. Each call is 25 minutes long. The screen will show a timer so you know how much time is left. If you are at home, make sure your internet is fast. If your connection is slow, the video will freeze. Up to four people can be in the video at once. Everyone must be dressed properly even for a video call. The jail staff can watch and listen to these calls. If they see you doing something wrong, they will turn the screen off. This counts as your one visit for the week.
What is the “My Care Pack” program?
The “My Care Pack” program is the only way to send physical goods to an inmate. You cannot bring clothes or food to the jail yourself. Instead, you go to a special website run by a vendor. You will see a list of items that the jail allows. This includes things like white socks, plain t-shirts, and soap. You can also buy snacks like ramen noodles, candy, and chips. Every item is checked by the vendor to make sure it is safe. Once you pay with your card, the vendor ships the box directly to the jail. The jail staff opens the box to make sure everything matches the order. Then, they give the items to the inmate. There is a limit on how much money you can spend each month. This stops people from having too many items in their cells. This system is good because it keeps out illegal items. It also makes sure inmates have access to extra things they might need or want while they are away from home.
What happens if I miss my scheduled time?
If you miss your scheduled time, you may lose your chance to visit for that week. The jail is very busy and cannot move appointments easily. If you are running late, call the visitation desk at 804-318-8017. They might be able to hold your spot for a few minutes, but it is not likely. If you miss the visit entirely, the system marks it as “no-show.” This still counts as the inmate’s one visit for the week. You cannot just come the next day instead. You will have to wait until the system opens for the following week to book a new time. This is why it is important to arrive 15 minutes early. It gives you time to find parking and get through the security line. If you know you cannot make it, cancel your visit at least 12 hours early. You can do this on the GTL website. This allows someone else to take that time slot. Being responsible with your time helps the inmate get their weekly talk without any issues.
How do I contact the jail for an emergency?
If there is an emergency at home, call the main jail number at 804-748-1476. Tell the person who answers that you have an emergency. They will ask for your name and the inmate’s name. They will also ask what the emergency is about. The jail staff will verify the facts. For example, if a family member died, they might call the hospital to check. Once they know it is real, they will tell the inmate. They might let the inmate make a special phone call. If the inmate has a medical emergency, you can call the medical line at 804-748-1477. The nurses can tell you if the inmate is being treated. They cannot give you every detail because of privacy laws. If you are worried about the safety of an inmate, ask to speak with the jail supervisor. They can check on the inmate and make sure they are okay. The jail stays open 24 hours to handle these types of calls.