Each case involved correctional concerns which were decided in the Federal and the State courts and which were reported in the West Reporter System or Criminal law Reporter during the calendar year 1979. The digest is organized into 51 topics based on discrete factual problems or problem areas which occur in correctional law. Where several opinions have been released in a given case during the calendar year, they are digested in the order of their release. Cases are followed for subsequent reversals, affirmances, and overrulings. Prior history is not shown in the digest; it can be found in prior issues. A topical index and a table of cases are provided. The annotations should not substitute for a reading of the opinions. (Author abstract modified)