Overview: Michael Aloysius Rafferty starts his new job as Stipendiary Magistrate of Manly Local Court.
Overview: Rafferty's estranged wife Joanne arrives in Sydney to discuss a few things and he is anxious. Meanwhile, Paulyne has a crisis of conscience when she has to act for a man in an assault case.
Overview: Rafferty deals with a young prostitute and U.S. government officials apply to extradite one of their citizens.
Overview: Rafferty is angry when a drugs case he was listed to deal with is suddenly moved to another court and confronts the Chief Magistrate about the matter.
Overview: Rafferty is forced to examine his attitude towards women.
Overview: Rafferty feels alone with his recent move to the city.
Overview: Rafferty has no choice but to dismiss a big drug case.
Overview: Rafferty hears two cases about people's desire to look good.
Overview: A young prostitute decides to defend herself against a soliciting charge.
Overview: An Italian father and his brother plant a bomb in Rafferty's chambers.
Overview: Rafferty investigates what appears to be an accidental death by drowning.
Overview: A young drifter comes before Rafferty's court for being in possession of a cat skin.
Overview: Rafferty's cases reflect people invading other people's privacy.
Overview: Rafferty finds that people and things are not always as they seem.
Overview: Rafferty realises that the media makes innocent people look like monsters.