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The jail administration looks to the chaplaincy council to ensure that all clergy and volunteers are properly screened before they are allowed access. This includes verifying their clergy status with their church, review of their credentials and any criminal background history they may have. If a real or supposed member of the clergy arrives to visit an inmate and they do not have a copy of their ordination certificate or equivalent credentials, then the jail administration will deny the visit or refer the matter to the chaplaincy council. The council administers these matters from the viewpoint that it is the inmate's right to see the clergy of his choice and that must be honored. Because of the important functions performed by the chaplains, the jail administration considers them to be part of the professional staff. As such the chaplain is accorded a level of respect commensurate with his position. The relationship between the chaplains and the jail administration is an important one that should be fostered by all volunteers and visitors. The jail is a "paramilitary" type of environment, where there are sergeants, lieutenants, captains, chiefs, divisional superintendents and administrative directors.
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