Who Do I Write a Hardship Letter to for Prison Transfer in NYS?

Question from Deblynn, Who Do I Write a Hardship Letter to for Prison Transfer in NYS?

Answer from AI:

If you need to request a prison transfer for your son to a facility closer to your home in Delhi, NY, due to your severe health issues and limited family support, you will need to write a hardship letter to the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS). Here’s a general guide on how to proceed:

Steps to Write a Hardship Letter for Prison Transfer

1. **Identify the Correct Recipient**:
– Address your letter to the Superintendent of the current facility where your son is incarcerated.
– Also, send a copy to the DOCCS Central Office.

2. **Gather Supporting Documentation**:
– Medical records that detail your severe COPD and lung cancer.
– Any other documents that support your claim of being the primary support for your son.

3. **Draft the Hardship Letter**:
– **Introduction**: Clearly state the purpose of your letter.
– **Personal Information**: Include your name, age, and medical condition.
– **Details of the Incarcerated Individual**: Provide your son’s name, inmate number, and current facility.
– **Reason for Request**: Explain why a transfer is necessary, focusing on your health issues and the need for family support.
– **Supporting Evidence**: Mention the attached medical records and any other relevant documents.
– **Conclusion**: Politely request the transfer and provide your contact information for any follow-up.

Sample Hardship Letter

“`plaintext
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Date]

[Superintendent’s Name]
[Current Facility Name]
[Facility Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear Superintendent [Name],

I am writing to request a transfer for my son, [Son’s Name], Inmate Number [Inmate Number], currently housed at [Current Facility]. Due to my severe health issues, including COPD and lung cancer, I am unable to travel long distances. I am 71 years old and the primary support for my son, who has no other family to rely on.

Enclosed are my medical records that detail my condition. Given my limited mobility and the critical need for family support, I kindly request that my son be transferred to a facility closer to our home in Delhi, NY.

Thank you for your understanding and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
“`

Where to Send the Letter

– **Superintendent of the Current Facility**: Address the letter to the Superintendent of the prison where your son is currently incarcerated.
– **DOCCS Central Office**:
– New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision
– The Harriman State Campus
– 1220 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12226-2050

Additional Resources

– **New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS)**: [DOCCS Website](https://doccs.ny.gov/)
– **Family Guide to Visiting and Communicating with Inmates**: [Family Guide](https://doccs.ny.gov/family-guide)

When to Seek Legal Advice

If your initial request is denied or if you encounter difficulties in the process, it may be beneficial to consult with a legal professional who specializes in prison law or family law. They can provide personalized advice and help you navigate the complexities of the system.

Remember, while this guide provides a general overview, each case is unique, and professional legal advice is recommended for specific situations.