The trend toward providing law libraries and even paralegal/attorney services indicates an increased need for trained professionals in the prison setting. The legal assistance program currently offered by the Texas Department of Corrections demonstrates the wide range of questions and problems that the paralegal can address. Many issues of importance to the morale and adjustment of the inmate are only quasi-legal and can be resolved through accurate information and appropriate outside service agency referrals. The paralegal may be a very efficient and practical resource for complying with evolving legal service standards in the prison. (Author abstract)