Except for clear Constitutional practices, or those mandated by the courts, these guidelines are to be used when evaluating jail conditions. The guidelines can be a basis for organizing jail operations and as justification for funds to improve jails, lockups, and detention centers. A jail audit on-site visit eventually results in a written report that provides: (1) evaluation of the jail operation measured against nationally recognized standards, guidelines, and recommendations; (2) an executive summary: (3) an approach to resolving deficiencies noted in the audit; and (4) a means of monitoring jail operations on a continuing basis. If a jail operation is challenged in court, guidelines similar to the ones in this volume may be used by those who file complaints. Nationally recognized guidelines can also be used by the courts as a major reference source in granting relief. The Manual provides guidelines in Administration, Physical Plant, Medical and Health Care, Security, Inmates’ Rights, Intake Procedures, and Inmate Services and Programs. It includes forms needed for jail evaluations.