In 1975, the Center for Criminal Justice (Washington, D.C.) undertook a 30-month project in correctional facilities in three States and with parolees in a fourth State. The research design utilized observation techniques, interviews, questionnaires, and analysis of institutional records to examine three interrelated components in the evaluation of the inmate grievance procedure: the implementation process, program effectiveness, and impact of the procedure. Both officers and inmates must trust in the viability of any new procedure and of the positive consequences of such a procedure on other aspects of the institution's life. An effective inmate grievance resolution procedure will empower the inmates and promote change from within. Inmates will have a vehicle for bringing outside attention to their collective grievances, all will have equal opportunity to voice their personal grievances, arbitrary abuse by guards will decrease, and old policies and procedures will be subject to review and change. An ineffective procedure, however, will not produce this positive change; it will, instead, coopt the inmates. Successful establishment of fair complaint handling procedures in correctional facilities hinge on supportive legislation, a successfully tested model, and close monitoring of personnel involved. Three tables and 20 references are provided.