Before Federal Prison

The Pre-Surrender Reality

I spent 55 months under pre-sentence supervision—nearly five years knowing what was coming but unable to start serving. That waiting period was, in many ways, harder than incarceration itself.

The uncertainty is exhausting. The anxiety is constant. And most people waste this time instead of using it to prepare. Don't make that mistake.

BOP Designation

After sentencing, the Bureau of Prisons determines where you'll serve your time. This process considers security level, medical needs, program availability, and proximity to release residence. While you can't choose your facility, understanding the process helps set realistic expectations.

Your attorney can submit a designation recommendation to the BOP. While not binding, it's worth advocating for facilities that meet your needs—whether that's specific medical care, programming, or reasonable distance from family.

Understanding Security Levels

The BOP operates facilities at different security levels:

• Minimum (Camps): Lowest security, often dormitory-style housing, more freedom of movement
• Low: Double-fenced perimeters, more structured than camps
• Medium: Higher security, more restricted movement
• High (USP): Maximum security, most restrictive conditions

Your security level is determined by factors including offense severity, criminal history, sentence length, and history of violence or escape.

Self-Surrender Preparation

If you're granted self-surrender (reporting to the facility on your own rather than being taken into custody), you have a window to prepare. Use it wisely:

• Legal affairs: Powers of attorney, wills, custody arrangements
• Financial planning: Bills, accounts, property management
• Communication setup: Prepare family for TRULINCS email and phone systems
• Medical records: Document current medications and conditions
• Mental preparation: Set realistic expectations for what's ahead

Family Preparation

Your incarceration affects everyone close to you. Preparing them—emotionally and practically—is essential:

• Honest conversations about timeline and expectations
• Setting up communication systems (TRULINCS, phone accounts)
• Discussing visitation logistics and costs
• Preparing children age-appropriately
• Establishing support networks for those left behind

The Day of Surrender

What to bring, what to leave behind, what to expect when you walk through those doors. The intake process. R&D (Receiving and Discharge). Your first hours, first night, first week.

I'll tell you exactly what I experienced and what others I've worked with have reported. No sugarcoating, no false comfort—just the truth about what's ahead.