Perf-Based Stds, Adult Corr. Inst. 5th ed March 2021

Performance Standard 1A: Facility Administration

Media Access 5-ACI-1A-22 (Ref. 4-4021)

Written policy, procedure, and practice establish the facility’s commitment to informing the public and the media of events within the facility’s areas of re- sponsibility. The procedures address emergency and nonemergency responses to the media and, at a minimum, include the following: • the identification of areas in the facility that are accessible to media rep - resentatives, consistent with preserving the inmate’s right to privacy and maintaining order and security • the contact person for routine requests for information • identification of data and information protected by federal or state privacy laws, or federal and state freedom of information laws • special events coverage • news release policy • the designation of individuals or positions within the facility authorized to speak with the media on behalf of the facility

Comment : The complexity of the policy statement should be consistent with the size and complexity of the operation.

Protocols : Written policy and procedure. Public information plans and materials.

Process Indicators : Review of public information activities. Review of media cov- erage. Media interviews. Staff interviews. Facility logs and records. Press release.

4-4022

Deleted August 2008

Legal Counsel 5-ACI-1A-23 (Ref. 4-4023)

Written policy and procedure specify the circumstances and methods for the warden/superintendent and other staff to obtain legal assistance as needed in the performance of their duties. Comment : Qualified legal assistance is necessary to ensure that policies and pro- cedures are consistent with relevant court decisions. Legal counsel can also advise on meeting statutory and court requirements, advise on institutional operations and individual cases, and provide representation before courts and other bodies. Counsel should be available promptly and continuously.

Protocols : Written policy and procedure.

Process Indicators : Staff interviews. Verification of service availability.

Adult Correctional Institutions, Fifth Edition

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