With the inquest into Clarry Long's death approaching, magistrate Peter Lockhart first has to deal with the fallout from the gang violence and a major riot - and learns that the local police may be plotting against him. Wallan returns to work full-time. Conflict breaks out between Ellis and his uncle.

No sooner is he restored to the magistrate's chair than Lockhart's standing comes under threat because of his decision to help the disgraced Harry Pope. Wallan continues to try to make restitution for his past and has a proposal for his ex-wife. The relationship between Ellis and Noble reaches a crossroads.