Arizona § 31-231 - Unauthorized communication with prisoner; classification; definition
Full text of Arizona Arizona Revised Statutes § 31-231 — Unauthorized communication with prisoner; classification; definition, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-231. Unauthorized communication with prisoner; classification; definition
A. A person who is not authorized by law and who without legal or official permission communicates with a prisoner who is within the custody and control of the department is guilty of a class 2 misdemeanor.
B. For the purposes of this section, all prisoners who are detained within a correctional facility or who are supervised in any program outside of a correctional facility are within the custody and control of the department. This section does not apply to prisoners who are on parole, community supervision, work release or home arrest or who are under any other conditional release that does not involve direct and continuous supervision by the department.
C. For the purposes of this section, "communication" means:
1. Any verbal or nonverbal communication that poses a direct threat to the safe and secure operation of the department's institutions, programs or inmate labor work crews.
2. Any written communication that includes taking any unauthorized letter, writing, literature or reading material to or from a prisoner who is within the custody and control of the department.
Source: official Arizona text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona § 31-231
What does Arizona Revised Statutes § 31-231 cover?
Section 31-231 ("Unauthorized communication with prisoner; classification; definition") is part of the Arizona Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Arizona. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Arizona § 31-231?
A common citation format is "Arizona Revised Statutes § 31-231" (Arizona). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Arizona law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Arizona official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Arizona attorney.
How does Arizona § 31-231 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Arizona can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Arizona.