AJA CJM flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Span of control

The number of subordinates a supervisor can effectively manage; typically 5–8 for first-line jail supervisors, depending on task complexity and staff experience.

Chain of command

A formal, unbroken line of authority from the chief executive down to line staff; each employee has exactly one supervisor to whom they report.

Unity of command

The principle that each employee should report to only one supervisor to avoid conflicting orders and confusion in the workplace.

Staffing formula

Required officers = (posts × hours per day × days per year) ÷ net available work hours per officer per year, where net hours exclude leave, training, and sick time.

Inmate classification

The process of assessing inmates' risk and needs using objective, validated tools to determine housing, custody level, and program assignment.

Grievance procedure

A written policy with defined timelines, levels of review, and appeal rights that allows inmates to formally raise complaints without fear of retaliation.

Direct supervision

A jail management strategy where officers are stationed inside the housing unit with inmates, managing behavior proactively rather than from a control room.

Sally port

A secure, controlled entrance with two sets of interlocking doors that prevents direct access from outside to inside the secure perimeter.

Formal count

A procedure to physically verify the presence and identity of each inmate, conducted at least once per shift and at irregular times; inmates stand for count.

Use of force continuum

A graduated scale of response options from presence and verbal direction to lethal force; force must be objectively reasonable and proportional to the threat.

Strip search

A search requiring the removal of clothing to inspect body cavities; requires reasonable suspicion and is conducted by same-gender staff except in emergencies.

Suicide prevention screening

Intake screening to identify suicide risk, followed by housing in a safe cell, observation levels (e.g., every 15 minutes), and removal of ligature points.

Contraband

Any item not authorized for inmate possession, including weapons, drugs, and cell phones; controlled through shakedowns, detectors, and mail screening.

Emergency drills

Practice exercises for fire, riot, escape, hostage, and natural disaster scenarios, conducted at least annually (often quarterly) to test readiness.

Eighth Amendment

Constitutional prohibition of cruel and unusual punishment; violated by deliberate indifference to serious medical needs or excessive force against inmates.

Fourteenth Amendment

Provides due process and equal protection; applies to pretrial detainees and state inmates, ensuring fair treatment and conditions of confinement.

First Amendment

Protects inmates' rights to mail, religion, and access to courts, subject to reasonable restrictions for security and order.

Fourth Amendment

Governs searches of inmates and visitors; strip searches require reasonable suspicion under Bell v. Wolfish to be constitutional.

PLRA

Prison Litigation Reform Act; requires inmates to exhaust all administrative remedies before filing a federal lawsuit challenging prison conditions.

PREA

Prison Rape Elimination Act; mandates zero tolerance for sexual abuse, staff training, reporting mechanisms, and investigation of allegations in confinement facilities.

Graham v. Connor

Supreme Court case establishing that use of force must be objectively reasonable under the circumstances, considering the severity of the crime and threat.

Deliberate indifference

A legal standard for Eighth Amendment violations; occurs when staff know of a serious risk to inmate health or safety and fail to take reasonable action.

ACA standards

American Correctional Association accreditation standards for jails; compliance is voluntary unless adopted by state law or regulation.

Transformational leadership

A leadership style that inspires and motivates followers through idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, and individualized consideration.

Situational leadership

A leadership model where the leader adapts their style (directing, coaching, supporting, delegating) based on the follower's readiness and the task.

Servant leadership

A leadership philosophy where the leader's primary goal is to serve and develop followers, prioritizing their needs and the community.

Critical incident stress debriefing

A structured group process conducted after a traumatic event to help staff process their experiences and reduce psychological distress.

Employee assistance program

A confidential workplace resource offering counseling and support services to employees dealing with personal or work-related problems.

Burnout

A state of physical and emotional exhaustion caused by prolonged stress; prevented through manageable workloads, recognition, and work-life balance.

Performance evaluation

An objective, behavior-based assessment tied to the job description, used for employee development and not solely for discipline.

Code of ethics

A set of principles guiding professional conduct, including integrity, avoidance of conflicts of interest, and modeling ethical behavior for staff.

Mentoring

A professional development relationship where an experienced employee guides a less experienced one, supporting growth and career advancement.