Prisonpedia:About

Prisonpedia is a free, community-driven resource created for people affected by the justice system-by those who have lived through it themselves. Our mission is to provide clear, accessible, and practical information for individuals navigating incarceration, reentry, and all the complexities of the justice system. Whether you are directly impacted, supporting a loved one, or seeking to understand the system, Prisonpedia exists to empower you with knowledge, reduce confusion, and foster a sense of community.

Prisonpedia was founded by people who know firsthand the challenges of incarceration and the justice system. We believe that those who have lived experience are uniquely qualified to share insights, answer questions, and help others avoid common pitfalls. Our team and contributors have been on both sides of the bars-inside and out-and are committed to using their experiences to help others.

Our core values:

Authenticity: All content is written or reviewed by people with real experience in the justice system.
Community: No one should feel alone in this process. We encourage sharing stories, advice, and support.
Empowerment: Knowledge is power. We want to give you the tools to make informed decisions.

What We Offer

Prisonpedia provides a wide range of informational resources, including:

Explainers on legal processes, prison life, reentry, and parole.
Practical guides for families and friends supporting incarcerated loved ones.
Glossaries of common terms and acronyms used in the justice system.
Tips and insights on navigating bureaucracy, accessing services, and advocating for yourself or others.
Stories and advice from people who have lived through incarceration and reentry.

For:

People currently incarcerated, facing charges, or on probation/parole.
Families and friends supporting someone in the system.
Individuals returning to the community after incarceration.
Advocates, social workers, and others seeking to understand the lived realities of the justice system.

Legal Disclaimer

Prisonpedia’s sole purpose is to be an informational resource. We do not provide legal advice, representation, or direct advocacy services. The information on our site is intended to help you understand the justice system, learn from others’ experiences, and find resources that may be helpful in your situation.

The information provided on Prisonpedia is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Laws and procedures vary by state and can change over time. We make every effort to ensure our content is accurate and up-to-date, but we cannot guarantee its completeness or applicability to your individual circumstances. You should always consult a qualified attorney or legal professional for advice specific to your case.

If you have a legal problem, need to make decisions about your case, or are facing urgent deadlines, you should consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.

Getting Involved

Prisonpedia is committed to transparency, respect, and continual improvement. We invite feedback, corrections, and contributions from anyone with lived experience or expertise. Our goal is to keep building a resource that reflects the real needs and voices of the justice-impacted community.

If you have suggestions, want to share your story, or see something that needs updating, please contact inbox@prisonpedia.com. Together, we can make Prisonpedia a trusted resource for all who need it.