Branch County Jail – Coldwater, MI

Branch County Jail is located in Branch County and is the main jail for the region. Looking for somebody in jail at Branch County Jail? This guide will tell you all about anything you might want to know about Branch County Jail,like the following: Find an inmate at Branch County Jail. How to view Branch County Jail mugshots. The jail’s phone number and address. How to post bail. Branch County Jail intake procedures. Court information. And lots more.

The chance of going to jail is a scary and stressful idea, not only for whoever gets arrested, but also their friends and family. The purpose of this guide is to give information that you’ll need to make the process a lot easier. If you have specific questions, please feel free to ask them, and also any comments or tips that would be a benefit to other people in the same situation would be appreciated.

Do you have a family member or friend that is locked up and want to find out where they are?

Has somebody who’s been arrested and you need to find them?

To look up who is in jail at Branch County Jail you have to click on their link and use the inmate search.

The Branch County Jail Inmate List is an online list of people who are in jail, including current status, bail amount (if applicable), and times you can visit. You can find information about anyone who has been arrested or discharged in the past 24 hours. Jail inmates are shown in alphabetical order by their last name. You can get their inmate information fast if you have the arrestee’s full name, date of birth, or arrest number.

If the person you are looking for is at another county jail you should check the other Michigan county jails in our Michigan County Jail Guide: List of all jails in Michigan

A mugshot, or jail booking picture, is a picture that the police take when you are processed at the jail intake. They will take one and a side-view photo. Your name and jail booking number will appear on the pictures, and they are stored at the jail.

Mugshots can be found online, or you can view them at the Branch County Jail. When viewing online you will need to enter the prisoner’s first and last name, and the arrest date, if you know it.

Trying to figure out how to get your mugshot removed from the Branch County Jail site? This can be tricky, since your mugshot is public record. To get your mugshot removed you will need to file a Petition to Expunge in court. This means that the record of your arrest will be sealed, and will not be available to the public. It is difficult to do this, and you will most likely need the services of a lawyer.

To learn more about getting your mugshot taken down, the different mugshot websites, and the mugshot removal services: How To Remove Your Mugshot from the Internet

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Of course, once you’re incarcerated, your primary thought is about how to get out. After you’ve gone through the booking process, your bail will be decided using the bail schedule or the magistrate will decide it. If there is no bail set this may mean that you will either be free to go until your trial, or you must remain in jail until your trial.

If you are released you must agree to be in court on your court date, and you are not allowed to go out of town.

Typically, an inmate in the Branch County Jail are given time off in exchange for good behavior when they follow the rules and area a good inmate while locked up.

If you do exhibit good behavior and the jail believes you can be trusted, you may be allowed to do work release. You will have to go back to the jail every day after work, or you could be permitted to move into a halfway house instead of the jail.

Bail is the amount of money that you have to pay to be released from jail pending trial. Your bail amount depends on how serious your charges are. You will have to pay 10 percent of the total amount that was set before you can get out of jail. If you don’t show up for your court date, whoever put up your bail money will not get their money back.

You will need to call the Branch County Jail. If know the person’s information, like name, address and date of birth, they’ll be able to let you know what their bail is set at. You can also find out how much their bail is on the Branch County Jail website.

Having to bail a friend or family member out of jail is no fun, but fortunately, its really easy. First of all, you need to know if their bail is a “Cash Bond Only”. If so, you will not be able to get a bondsman. Bail can only be paid by cash – they will not accept checks. As soon as you’ve posted (paid) bond, the person will be released to your care. If this person doesn’t violate any of the terms of their release, you’ll get the bail money back.

If bail is set too high, or you just can’t afford it, you might need to use a bail bondsman. They generally charge you a fee of 10 to 15 percent of the total amount of bail set by the magistrate, and sometimes have a minimum charge of $100. This will not be returned to you and has to be paid in cash. If the bail is exceptionally high, the bail bondsman will in most cases require that they use your personal assets as collateral.

You can find a bail bondsman visit our page about: Find a Bail Bondsman in Branch County

Have you ever hired a bondsman for yourself, a family member or friend? If you have, post a comment below and tell about it, and let us know how it worked out.

Click here to share your story

• Get Time Off For Good Behavior
• Work Release
• Released For Time Served
• Get Out on a Pre-Trial Release Program
• Get Released on House Arrest
• Own Recognizance

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The intake procedure takes you through the following steps:

• You will be placed in a holding cell. When the jail is busy, you will have to wait, sometimes for many hours, before you get processed.
• The first step is that you have to answer a number of questions, like your full legal name, address, birthdate and an emergency contact.
• You will also be asked about your medical and psychological history.
• You’ll be given an inmate ID number.
• You will get fingerprinted.
• You will have your mugshot taken.
• Any property you have will be taken away from you and stored until you get released from jail.
• You will then be allowed to use the phone to call a member of your family, friend, or bail bondsman.
• If you are expected to be released shortly, you will be allowed to wear your street clothes, otherwise you will be given a jumpsuit.

Have you ever been booked into jail? If you have, please share your experience. How long did it take to get processed? Were you treated fairly? Can you share any secrets that will help other people make it through the procedure?

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Once you are able to post bail, you will get released from jail. The discharge process can take anywhere from 10 minutes to many hours. So, the faster you can pay your bail, the faster you will get released. How quickly you get discharged might depend on whether you’ve got a bond amount or if the magistrate must figure out how much your bail will be. For minor offenses, you will simply be booked and released on your own recognizance. When you get to the end of your sentence and are given a date of your release, expect to get released anywhere between the hours of 9am and 12pm.

If you have a, or if you need to start your sentence, it is recommended that you follow the rules and turn yourself into the authorities. If you have a warrant, go to the jail, and tell someone that think that there is an outstanding warrant for your arrest. They will do a record check, and if they verify that there is a warrant for your arrest, you will be taken into the sheriff’s custody. If you are reporting to serve out your sentence, go down to the jail at the time and date that the sentence order requires you to. Be sure that you get don’t get there late, or they may decide to arrest you. Be sure to only bring required items when you go, such as your driver’s license or ID, any prescription medication you might take, along with your doctor’s prescription, and a sentencing order.

In order to have visitors, inmates need to give the name and date of birth of each visitor to the jail in advance of the visit. This information will be entered in the log as an approved visitor. All visitors have to provide acceptable photo identification when visiting an inmate. Anyone that gets to visitation or without a visiting order will not be allowed to visit the inmate.
Visitation procedures at Branch County Jail change often, so it would be wise to double-check the jail site before you go.

All phone calls from jail are collect calls or through a pre-paid phone account. Jail phone calls are typically more expensive than phone calls made at home. There are certain restrictions about how often you can use the phone, but inmates must keep in mind that every inmate wants to use the phone too, so they can call their family. If you are under any sort of disciplinary procedure, phone privileges might get cut back or forbidden.

Phone Number: 517-278-2325

All mall sent to inmates is required to be sent using the actual US Postal Service. You cannot use any other form of delivery. Clearly write or type the person’s name, inmate ID, and jail address on the outside of the letter that you send. Do not send anything in a package, envelope with padding, plastic or paper bag, or an envelope containing metal parts. All mail that you send to inmates gets opened and read and inspected by the jail officers, and the mail will get returned if the jail decides it is inappropriate.

Use this address when sending a letter to an inmate at Branch County Jail:

Branch County Jail
580 Marshall Road
Coldwater, MI 49036

Here is how you should address the letter:

[INMATE’S FULL NAME]
[INMATE ID]
Branch County Jail
580 Marshall Road
Coldwater, MI 49036

The mail policy at Branch County Jail changes, so be sure to visit the site when you send a letter to an inmate.

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If you have been arrested, you have rights, the first of which is that you have the right to request a lawyer. You don’t get to make many phone calls when you get arrested, so make sure to get a friend or family member to find an attorney when you call them. I know you’re probably asking yourself right now ‘I don’t have to get a lawyer – I can just represent myself’ You are not required to have an attorney for some criminal charges, a criminal defense attorney can advise you of your rights, protect your interests and help you find your way through the complicated court system. The quicker you get an attorney working on your criminal case, the better off you’ll be.

To read more about the benefits of and how to hire an attorney, visit: Find a Lawyer

If you’ve been arrested and cannot afford a lawyer, you will get a public defender. In addition, the Public Defender Office has a number of staff such as private investigators, forensics experts and case workers. You will be reassured to know that Public Defenders are real attorneys, admitted to the Michigan State Bar Association and are licensed to represent you in court and practice law.

Have you or someone you know had to use a Public Defender or court appointed attorney? Do you think they properly handled your case?

All court records are public record and are available upon request to anyone who requests them – not just the person who they pertain to. Court records include a file with a docket and each of the documents in your case. You, and anyone else, can access your court records using the website, or by going to the Branch County Clerk of Court.

The Branch County Clerk of Court is a member of the court who manages access to court records. They also administer the oath for anyone testifying in court, and read the verdict when delivered by the jury. All court records related to your case are maintained at Clerk of Court.

Court fees are the fees and charges from your court case, such as filing fees, motion and claim fees, and court charges. If you cannot afford these fees and have been assigned a Public Defender, you may not have to pay the fees.

A Magistrate is the type of judge that will preside on your case. They do different tasks, which include setting bail amounts, writing arrest warrants, and acting as the presiding judge over preliminary and procedural court proceedings and detention proceedings.

A defendant’s pre-sentencing report is prepared with your background information and as much detail about the arrestee’s life and history, which the magistrate judge will review and take into account when determining the sentence. Information will be solicited from the person on trial, his or her family members, and in some circumstances the victim of the crime. Keep in mind you are allowed to request to have a copy of this report prior to sentencing, so you can review it for accuracy and completeness, and correct any mistakes.

After you are convicted of a crime, you will then get sentenced. The presiding judge in your case will weigh several options when determining your sentence, including community service and probation, to prison or jail time. Depending on the particulars of your trial, the severity of your crime, and any sentencing guidelines that they judge will use, you could be taken into custody, right there in court, or given a date that you must to surrender and report to jail to serve out your sentence.

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Want to find out if somebody you know is incarcerated, or has gone to jail in the past?

To find this out you need to visit the Branch County jail website and do an inmate search lookup, and search by:

• Their name.
• Date of birth.
• Approximate booking date.
• and their inmate ID.

If you think this person is in jail, you should call the jail confirm whether they’ve been arrested or not.

If you believe you have a warrant out for your arrest, you can check the court records on the Branch County jail website or call the court directly. You have to have their first and last name. You can also go to the local jail and ask one of the officers. Keep in mind that if you do have an outstanding warrant, you will be taken into custody immediately.

If you know the person’s name, and possibly an arrest date, contact the Branch County jail, on the phone, go there in person, or find out online. Records of arrests are a matter of public record and these records are available to anyone.

Civil processes are when you are served with legal papers, such as warrants. You can find these civil process orders by contacting the Sheriff’s office, online or by phone.

All people registered as sex offenders must be registered and listed on a sex offender database. The people listed on these databases have been convicted of a sex or kidnapping crime. You are able to see these offenders on the website, but remember that you will not be able to find the street address, but rather the address block that they live on.

Court Records are considered public records, so they are accessible to anyone who requests them. Court Records include a case file that contains a docket and all documents and filings filed in the case. You are able to access your court records on the internet, or at the Branch County Clerk of Court in the jurisdiction where the case was filed.

Every state maintains a record of someone’s criminal background. These databases are all linked and you can track criminal backgrounds from any other state. Go to county courthouse and make an inquiry, or check online. It is helpful to know the county, and in the event that it was in a completely different state, you may have to pay for a more intensive search.

When you look up a person’s criminal records you will be able to get a report detailing any arrests, charges, or convictions that may be on a person’s record for the following crimes:

• DWI or DUI.
• Drug offenses.
• Kidnapping.
• Rape or other sexual assault.
• Violent crimes like assault or murder.
• Theft, breaking and entering.

During a criminal records search, in most cases will not see if someone has had:

• Speeding.
• Lost their driver’s license or license revoked or suspended.
• Any accidents.
• Minor infractions or moving violations.
• Parking Tickets.

To search for driving histories, you have to do a search for their driving record.

Have you ever searched for criminal records? Was it easy? Was your search online or did you make a phone call to the local courthouse? Was the information correct? There are many reasons that people look up criminal records, and your story might help other people that are in the same situation.

Click here to share your story

Most Wanted

The FBI has a listing of the Top Ten Most Wanted Criminals. In Branch County, the Branch County Sheriff’s Department keeps their own list of most wanted criminals and fugitives.

FBI Top Ten Most Wanted List


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Life In Jail / What Its Like

Daily Life

Everyone knows that getting locked up in the Branch County jail is very scary, soon you will become accustomed to the routine that is set for you in jail. Prisoners get an alarm to wake up every morning at 6am, and then you’ll have roll call. Then you will eat breakfast. When you finish breakfast you will have to work in the work program that you’ve been assigned to. This could be working in the kitchen, laundry, or some sort of manufacturing job. While this may seem tedious, it may help you when you leave jail, as you are gaining experience in a certain field of work. Other inmates go to school, while some take part in mandated treatment programs. After lunch, there will be another roll call, then back to work. Your evening will be spent either in your cell or a common room. During this time dinner is served and you will be expected to take a shower. After another roll call, it’s lights out. Even though you will be confined to your cell, there may be enough light to read or write letters. Then again, most inmates welcome lights out, and try to get as much sleep as they can.

Most people are frightened at the idea of jail because they don’t know what to expect. If you have spent any time in Branch County Jail, your experiences would be welcomed, if it can help another person to deal with it.

Dress Code

When incarcerated, all inmates are expected to wear the Branch County Jail uniform. This is normally a jumpsuit or scrubs. Of note to anyone visiting an inmate – you must be properly dressed. Any clothing considered inappropriate will not be permitted.

How To Send Money to an Inmate

You will have your own ‘bank account’ while in jail. This money is used to purchase items from the Commissary. Family and friends can deposit money into this account for you, and any money you earn while in prison will also be deposited into your account. Outside money can be paid in to your account via a money order, cash or check. If someone sends a check or money order, make sure that they write your inmate ID on it. The maximum amount you are allowed in your account is $290 per month.

The procedure to send funds to jail inmates might change, so check the official website before you send money to an inmate there.


Commissary

The commissary is the jail store. You can purchase a number of things here, such as toiletries, snacks and writing supplies. Bear in mind that you will probably want to use the commissary daily, and any infractions will get that privilege taken away from you.

Inmate Medications

If you are on any type of prescription medication, you will be allowed to continue taking it while in jail. When you are first processed, you will be asked what medication you take. You will then be referred to the jail nurse or doctor who will be in charge of monitoring your health and prescribing your medication.

Meals

You will get three meals a day: breakfast, lunch and dinner. As expected, they are very basic, but healthy. A typical breakfast might be cereal, toast, coffee and fruit. Lunch might be spaghetti, salad, bread and milk. Dinner could be chicken casserole, rice, vegetables, dessert and milk. Contrary to popular belief, prison food has greatly improved over the years, and you might find that it’s not much different from what you would eat at home.

Pods / The Yard

The jail is designed in a ‘pod’ layout, with self-contained housing arranged around an outdoor yard. Each pod has a central control station and a common room, and the inmates take turns in using the yard. The jail is designed this way to keep certain inmates together, and others away from the general population.

Gangs

As with life in general, gangs are a part of prison life. Obviously it is best to avoid becoming a part of this environment as it will only lead to trouble. When you first enter prison, you might find yourself being ‘primed’ to join a gang, or worse, you might get their attention in a negative way. The best thing to do is keep your head down and don’t get involved.


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News and Media

News

Photos / Pictures

Videos


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Jobs

Types of Jobs at Branch County Jail

The Deputy Sheriff is the second in command at the Branch County Jail, overseeing the day to day operations and administration of the jail. An inmate is unlikely to have much interaction with the Deputy Sheriff, unless they have committed an infraction. Detention Officers are responsible for the custody and care of the inmates. They maintain order in the jail, and handle security. A Detention Officer is assigned to a certain pod, and therefore is responsible for the same inmates each day. They get to know the inmates on a certain level and are well equipped to handle any problems that may occur.

Apply for a Job at Branch County Jail

Requirements:

• You have to be over the age of 21.
• You have to possess a High School Diploma or GED
• You have to be a US Citizen.
• You have to pass a Criminal, Credit and Driving History background check.
• You have to pass a drug test.
• You have to have a good level of fitness.
• You have to be in good health.
• You have to have a valid Driver’s License
• An applicant for Deputy Sheriff must possess a Law Enforcement Certification.


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Family Resources

There are resources for families of both the perpetrator of the crime and the victim. The social and emotional impact of crime is far reaching, affecting many. Families can receive professional counseling, court related assistance, social services assistance and help in navigating the criminal justice system.

If you are a family member, which resources did you find to be particularly helpful? Please let us know, as this will be helpful to other families in the same situation.

Tell Your Story


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Victim Resources

Important Note: If you, or someone you know, are in immediate danger, call 911.

Victim’s Rights

The Victim Rights Act grants victims the following rights:

• The right to protection from the accused.
• The right to notification.
• The right to attend proceedings.
• The right to speak at criminal justice proceedings.
• The right to consult with the prosecuting attorney.
• The right to restitution.
• The right to a speedy trial.
• The right to be treated with fairness, dignity and respect.

The definition of victim includes:

• Spouses and children of all victims.
• Parents and guardians of minor victims.
• Parents, guardians and siblings of mentally or physically incapacitated victims or victims of homicide.
• Foster parents or other caregivers, under certain circumstances.

There are a number of services and programs designed to help victims and their families. You can find out about these services by contacting the courthouse, or local law enforcement agency.

Victim Notification

The Department of Justice Victim Notification System (VNS) is a system that provides victims with information pertaining to their case and/or any defendants in the case. You will receive a Victim Identification Number (VIN) and a Personal Identification Number (PIN) that will allow you to access VNS via the internet or by phone. Here, you will find information about future court hearings, historical court events, and detailed information about the defendant. This will include criminal charges filed, the outcome of charges, sentence imposed, custody location, projected release date and any other release information. The VNS website is updated daily. You will also receive any ongoing information by mail or email.

Have you, a family member or friend ever used the Victim Notification System? If so, was it effective? Did you get the information in a timely manner? Was the system difficult to use? We would like to hear from you, so please post any comments here.

Click here to post a comment

Sex Offender Information and Search

All people registered as sex offenders are registered on either a national or state sex offender database. The people on these databases have been convicted of a sex or kidnapping crime. You can access this information online, but bear in mind that you will not get the exact address, rather the block that they live on.

Domestic Violence

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, there are services to help you. Your county will have a Domestic Violence Services office. They provide free and confidential services, such as emergency shelter information, legal advocacy, support groups and domestic violence education. They will work to help you create a safe and violence-free life, and heal from the trauma of abuse.

Important Note: If you, or someone you know, are in immediate danger, call 911.


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Reviews

Reviews of this Jail

Have you ever been an inmate in this jail? Do you know someone there? Have you ever visited someone there?

If so, then you should write a review about it. Tell us about your jail experience so that other people can find out what to expect.

Things you might want to put in your comment:

• Conditions at the jail.
• Jail and pod facility and layout
• Staff and guards
• Jail food and commissary
• Visitation Days
• Other Inmates.
• Inmate safety
• Gang activity
• Programs and activities


Speak Your Mind

Tell Your Story

Everyone’s who has been put in jail has a story to tell. Why were you locked up? Did you experience fair treatment? How was life in jail? How did you get along with the other inmates? How has this experience impacted your life?

Tell the World All About It

Send a Message to Your Cell Mate

Did you make friends in jail? Are you trying to send a message to an inmate you met while you were incarcerated? Say hello here, just leave a message below.

Post a message to someone at Branch County Jail


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