Conducting advocacy within government agencies can oftentimes feel like a daunting and unrewarding task, and in our experience, this is especially true of the Department of Corrections. While there is no one way to go about advocacy, we believe the following may be some helpful tips.

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1.  When at all possible, always use email.  In this way, you have an electronic record of what has been communicated by the DOC. Never allow yourself to be in a position where the DOC can control the narrative. 

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2. Make sure you have a signed release of authorization form from the individual(s) you are conducting advocacy for. The DOC does and will use the lack of documentation as a means of refusing to speak with you, irrespective of whether protected information is being discussed. Please click on the link to access this form. DOC 1163

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3. Stick to the facts. To the extent possible, provide concrete information (dates, times, places, individuals involved, formal responses received, policy references, etc.). Try to limit personal narrative or emotion so your communications do not give them room to avoid answering your questions.

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4. When appropriate based on level of escalation, include higher level authorities in the email correspondence. This could include management at the facility, such as the warden or security director, or even your local lawmakers if you have an established realtionship. If the DOC is made aware that others have gotten involved, even informally, it can often change their tune. 

 

5. If your advocacy is for an individual, please make sure you keep him/her informed. Keeping them informed allows them to be involved in any potential decisions and reduces anxiety on both sides.

 

7. Communicate an acceptable form of resolution, and when possible, offer an alternative solution or solutions to try and build toward change for the situation. Make it clearly known that you will follow-up with the concerns. Also, pointedly ask the recipient the following: what next action steps will you take, who will you involve if anyone, when can I expect to hear back, and most important, if an issue of policy or procedure is mentioned, request that s/he provide you with copies of that information or direct you to where you can find it.

 

We hope you have found this helpful, and as always, do not hesitate to contact us with questions, concerns, or requests for additional guidance and support.