Correctional officers have historically dealt with the majority of inmate complaints, generally on the basis of informal bargaining. This system has advantages to the custodial staff but perpetuates and escalates a sense of powerlessness among the majority of inmates because of their inability to bargain effectively as individuals. It also entails numerous other problems. Formal standards have recently been introduced to avoid the arbitrary and particularistic decisionmaking that has long existed. Two mechanisms which have recently developed for the handling of inmate grievances are ombudsman programs, now existing in about 30 State or county correctional departments, and formal grievance procedures. Such procedures may be helpful to the institution by providing redress to a large number of grievants, creating greater administrative accountability, and producing changes in policies or procedures affecting inmate rights. However, they will not be significant agents for social change unless they can also demonstrate a redistribution of power, a change in the prison conditions which produce grievances, and a responsiveness to all issues affecting the quality of prison life. Reference notes are provided.