User:Eastlaw/Prison discipline

Prison discipline comprises the punitive procedures and systems used in prisons to keep order and otherwise enforce desired prisoner behavior. Punishable behavior can include, for example, insolence toward staff; refusal to obey orders; possession of illegal drugs; fighting; sexual assault; and so on. Typically the offenses are divided into categories based on severity, with each category having a set of maximum punishments. A wide variety of punishments are available for those prisoners who violate the rules. The punishments can include, for example, recommending parole date rescission or retardation; forfeiture, termination, or disallowance of statutory good time, extra good time, or good conduct time; disciplinary segregation; monetary restitution; monetary fine; loss of privileges; an unfavorable change in housing quarters; removal from programs or group activities; loss of job; impoundment of personal property; confiscation of contraband; restriction to quarters; or extra duty. Prison discipline is regulated by law in most countries. For example, the Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners promulgated by the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe provides "Discipline and order shall be maintained in the interest of safe custody and well-ordered community life"; prohibits collective punishment and the use of prisoners to administer discipline to other prisoners; requires that punishable offenses, their punishments and the authorities competent to impose punishment be established by law or regulation; bans corporal punishment and the use of handcuffs and other restraints as punishment; and provides due process guarantees such as the right to be informed of the charge and present a defense.