To arrange all this takes time. Family members and friends should not be surprised if they do not hear anything for a few weeks after the person is first incarcerated. Inmates also have access to mail. They can send and receive letters. As mentioned in the next chapter, it is very important to keep in touch with family and friends.
Mail can sometimes take longer than what one is accustomed to.
This can apply in both directions. Family and friends should also realize that the inmate cannot make a call whenever they want. Even if every week you receive a call at the same time, there is no guarantee that it will be the same next week. This means that all inmates are confined to their cells. All activities are suspended and each cell block eats meals at separate times.