The Bench

The first in a new series of this legal drama set in a magistrates' court. A mother and daughter are both on trial and must decide who takes the blame. Defence solicitor Des Davies can't resist being mean to a new rival.

When two desperate parents fight to get their children out of the care of social services, the magistrates must make a tough and heartbreaking decision. Katharine faces a crisis in her personal life

When a defendant arrives drunk and disorderly for his trial, proceedings dissolve into chaos. Meanwhile, a loyal grandmother tries every trick in the book to win her grandson bail.

A married man's one night stand leads to bitterness and recrimination in and out of the courtroom. Prosecutor Cheryl Cates' stressful day brings her closer to one of her colleagues.

Hugh faces a stark choice between his career and his personal loyalty to a defendant. Des has something to celebrate.

A father faces every parent's nightmare when his teenage son appears in court. Des is on a high in his personal life, but could get out of this depth when he decides to take on a hardened criminal as a client.

Ranjit realizes a client has become over-attached, and Des is compromised by his involvement with a criminal family. Work threatens to damage their personal lives.

The magistrates' are eagerly anticipating the ballot to decide the chair of Penbridge Magistrates' court. The friendship of rival candidates Val and Peter faces its greatest test.

The press descend on the court for the sentencing of a teacher who had a relationship with a pupil. Meanwhile Des and Cheryl reach crisis point.

When his client frames an innocent man, Des is not only compromised, but in great danger.