When an anxious solicitor turns up on the doorstep of Shoe Lane, Billy knows just who he needs. Dani's nephew is fighting extradition to the US on charges of terrorism and despite Clive's warnings Martha cannot let the system swallow up a young man without any firm evidence. Up against the might of the US government, Martha must use all her skills to save Rashid; even if he seems reluctant to help himself. Is Rashid as innocent as she believes and what are the US and UK security services determined to keep hidden? When Clive accepts a privileged position in the case his fears for Martha increase and their loyalties and beliefs are put to the test. Martha cannot forgive him for his involvement which threatens to leave both their professional and personal relationship in tatters. Elsewhere, Amy struggles to cope, CW finds herself out of her depth in court and Martha is shocked when a figure from her past arrives in Shoe Lane.
Martha Costello is in her thirties, single, passionate and a defence barrister applying for silk. Innocent until proven guilty are four words she lives by. But how does this fundamental principle stand up to examination by clients who are sometimes good, sometimes bad and sometimes evil?
Martha is faced with challenging cases and surprising clients. Her beliefs and prejudices, her conscience and her faith in the criminal justice system are tested to the limit over the course of the series.
Joining Martha is Clive Reader. He's funny, gifted and dangerous. The same age as Martha, they're called to the bar together. Both are applying for silk - how they perform in court is vital to this process and Clive knows how to play the game.