Frequently asked questions
- Is accreditation mandatory?
- No. The program is entirely voluntary, and requires the commitment of the agency's chief executive, who signs the agreement on the agency's behalf.
- Does accreditation tell us what our policies must say?
- No. Nothing in the program establishes a mandatory policy or procedure. The standards describe what an agency should address, not how it must address it. Policy development remains the responsibility and prerogative of each agency's chief executive.
- What does it cost?
- $300, covering both accreditation and re-accreditation, payable in full with the completed application by check, purchase order or voucher. The fee reflects the cost of printing applications, manuals, standards, and the Accredited Agency certificate.
- How long does it take?
- Agencies complete preparation for the final on-site assessment within 24 months of enrollment. Rushing is the most common mistake new Accreditation Managers make.
- How long does accredited status last?
- 3 years. In the third year the agency arranges an on-site team visit under the same guidelines as the original assessment.
- We are CALEA accredited. Do we have to start over?
- No. Mississippi agencies currently accredited by CALEA are not required to build a separate set of files for the Mississippi program.
- What if a standard does not apply to our agency?
- Mark it not applicable on the Standard Compliance Form. A folder is still created for every standard, whether applicable or not. Where compliance is genuinely impossible, a waiver may be requested — allow 90 days.
- Is a mock assessment required?
- No, but it is strongly recommended, and two are recommended before a first assessment. The agency arranges and pays for its own mock; the Commission does not arrange them, though staff will help identify potential assessors.
- What happens if we do not pass?
- The Commission can grant up to a 90-day extension. Where compliance is disputed, the Chief or Sheriff and Accreditation Manager may present their interpretation to the Commission at its next meeting.
Still have a question? Contact the accreditation staff.