orange county jail phones

This page explains exactly how phone calls, video visits, and messaging work for inmates in Orange County Jail (California). Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) uses ViaPath Technologies (formerly GTL) as the contracted vendor for inmate communications. All communications are subject to monitoring and recording.

Quick Start (most people need this):

  1. Find the inmate’s booking number using our OCSD inmate search guide.
  2. Create a ViaPath account (OCSD links to ConnectNetwork for account setup).
  3. Add funds (online, phone, kiosk, or mobile app) and start receiving calls/messages or scheduling video visits.

Important Rules (Read This First)

  • Calls, messages, and video visits are not confidential and may be monitored/recorded (except approved attorney-client calls).
  • Phone access and call times vary by housing unit and facility operations—availability can change day to day.
  • For in-person visitation rules and appointment scheduling, see our OC jail visitation guide.

How to Set Up Calls, Video Visits, and Messages (OCSD / ViaPath)

Step 1) Confirm custody + booking number

Before you deposit money or schedule anything, confirm the person is currently in custody and get the booking number. Start here: OCSD inmate locator guide.

Step 2) Create your ViaPath account

OCSD directs families to ViaPath/ConnectNetwork for account setup. Once your account is created, you can add funds and manage services.

Step 3) Add funds (choose the easiest option)

ViaPath/GettingOut provides multiple ways to deposit funds for calls/messages/video visits. Common options include:

  • Online deposit: GettingOut Deposits
  • By phone: ViaPath customer care / deposits at 1 (866) 516-0115
  • At the facility: Lobby kiosk (availability and ID requirements can vary)
  • Mobile app: GettingOut mobile apps
  • PIN Debit: OCSD materials reference PIN debit through ConnectNetwork

Tip: If you’re unsure which option to choose, start with an online deposit or the mobile app. If anything doesn’t work, call ViaPath support at 1 (866) 516-0115.

Video Visitation (GettingOut)

OCSD links families to GettingOut for setting up video visits. Availability and visit types can vary by facility and by the device you use.

Attorney–Client Calls (Private / Not Recorded)

OCSD provides a separate process for attorney-client private phone calls. OCSD notes that private video visits are not available for attorney-client communications through this process. Your attorney phone number must be vetted/approved; otherwise, the call may be recorded.

Important: OCSD explicitly states do not use a “GettingOut” account for attorney-client communication.

Start the official attorney-client call process here: OCSD: Attorney–Client private phone calls

Common Problems (Quick Fixes)

I’m not receiving calls / calls won’t connect

  • Confirm the inmate is currently in custody and you have the correct booking info.
  • Check whether your phone carrier or spam-blocking app is filtering unknown/collect calls.
  • Make sure your ViaPath/GettingOut account is funded and set up correctly for the phone number you want to receive calls on.
  • If it still fails, call ViaPath support: 1 (866) 516-0115.

I deposited money but nothing is working

  • Double-check you deposited into the correct service/account type for the facility.
  • Try logging in on a different device/browser.
  • Use the GettingOut help center or call support: 1 (866) 516-0115.

I need commissary instead of phone funds

Phone/video accounts and commissary funds aren’t always the same bucket. If your goal is commissary/toiletries, use: Inmate Accounts and Commissary.

Related Guides (Most Helpful Next)

Official Sources