Doing Time investigates the daily life of people navigating court and jail. We focus on Cook County, home to the country’s largest single-site jail, and the courts that order people’s release or jailing. Readers of this series will hear from insiders, formerly incarcerated people, loved ones, policy experts, and government actors to establish the forces that shape the everyday experience of doing time.
If you or someone you know wants to share an experience you’ve had at Cook County Jail or the courts, please write to doingtime@southsideweekly.com.
Our latest Doing Time stories:
Stories from the series
‘They Have No Respect For Us’
Disabled people who live at Cook County Jail face numerous, entrenched challenges, including limited health care and few accommodations.
Earning a Wage Behind Bars
One jail worker shares what it’s like to work while incarcerated, from cleaning up flooded cells to doing laundry.
Twenty Minutes and a Hug With Your Loved One
As jails across the country move towards banning in-person physical visits, Cook County’s visitation policies can be a lifeline.
‘Why Are We Donating Our Towels?’
Jail insiders describe having to buy their own supplies to keep their cells clean.
Going Hungry in Jail
Insiders describe provided meals as gross and unhealthy, while commissary items can be expensive.
Getting Your Property Back After Jail is Hard
During arrest, people are separated from their property. Getting it back is not easy.