Reviewed on: April 20,2026
Prison Discipline

How Long Can an Inmate Legally Be Held in the Hole?

What is the legal limitations on prisoner being held in the "hole"?He has already been in for 21 days, and has been informed that "they" are awaiting a signature of warden. The case has been reviewed and settled? Just concerned about how much more time he can be held for something that was out of his control. And none violent situation

There is no legal limitation on the length of time an inmate may remain in the SHU or the "hole".
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Answered by a former federal inmate · 14+ years advising families
✓ Verified answer July 30,2015 · Prison Discipline
1

There is no legal limitation on the length of time an inmate may remain in the SHU or the "hole". There are no laws that an inmate can rely on to govern how they are incarcerated. They are basically 'property of the department of corrections' - and have to do whatever the department decides, whenever they decide. Stays in the SHU can be months and months for infractions that are considered safety violations, like possession of a cellphone, a weapon, or fighting. If you are certain that the warden has signed off on the settlement, then his release will soon follow.

Accepted Answer Date Created: July 30,2015
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About this answer: This response was prepared by InmateAid’s editorial team in consultation with former inmates who have direct experience with the federal correctional system. InmateAid has served families of the incarcerated since 2012. This is general information only — not legal advice. Last reviewed April 2026.