What type of mail can be opened only in an inmate's presence?

The correct answer is legal mail because this type of correspondence is privileged and protected by law. Legal mail typically consists of communications between an inmate and their attorney or other legal representatives. It is important to ensure that these communications are not opened or read by prison staff to maintain the confidentiality of the attorney-client privilege.

Legal mail must be opened in the presence of the inmate to uphold this legal protection, allowing the inmate to verify the privacy of their communication. This procedure also ensures that the inmate is aware of the contents of the mail, fostering transparency in legal communications.

Other forms of mail, such as personal mail and package mail, may have different regulations regarding their handling. Personal mail can often be opened and inspected by detention staff without the inmate present to check for contraband or prohibited items. Package mail might also be subject to inspection prior to being given to the inmate but does not require the inmate's presence during the opening process as legal mail does. Therefore, legal mail is unique in that it requires the inmate's presence to preserve their confidentiality rights.