How does NCDAC protect inmates' rights during the grievance process?

The chosen answer accurately reflects the commitment of the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction (NCDAC) to uphold inmates' rights through a structured grievance process. Implementing procedures for fair and transparent handling of grievances ensures that inmates have a formal avenue to express their concerns and complaints regarding their treatment, conditions of confinement, or other issues they may face while incarcerated.

This approach allows for systematic documentation and investigation of grievances, which is vital for accountability. It helps create an environment where inmates feel safe to voice their issues without fear of unfair treatment, ensuring that their rights are respected and upheld.

In contrast, the other options present practices that would undermine the grievance process. Ignoring grievances would deny inmates their right to seek redress and engage with the corrections system constructively. Processing grievances without review would take away the necessary oversight to ensure that inmates' complaints are taken seriously and handled appropriately. Promoting retaliation against inmates who file grievances would create a hostile environment and discourage individuals from voicing their concerns, which conflicts directly with the mission to protect inmates' rights.