Inmate device and user interface for inmate initiated video visitation system

Abstract

A computer-implemented video vistation system of a correctional facility includes at least one inmate computer device in the correctional facility for use by an incarcerated inmate and being pre-programmed to communicate exclusively with a visitation services computer system. The at least one inmate computer device is configured, via an inmate interface presented on the inmate computer device, to accept a selection from a pre-registered authorized inmate user to initiate a visitation session with a remotely located non-incarcerated visitor without requiring endpoint control to schedule or initiate the visitation session by administrative personnel of the correctional facility. The visitation services computer system is configured to receive the accepted selection from the pre-registered authorized inmate user, transmit a text message to a visitor computer device of a remotely located non-incarcerated visitor including an invitation to a visitation session with the pre-registered authorized inmate user, and establish, when funds exist in a financial account to apply to a charge for the visitation session and when the visitor accepts the invitation via the visitor computer device, an interconnection between the visitor computer device and the at least one inmate computer device to commence an electronic visitation session.