Gerald Prestley, a successful and respected solicitor, in a county town, finds himself in trouble.
A man has been killed by a car that did not stop. The same night Steven Prestley, son of a local solicitor, borrowed his father's car. Later his parents found two dents on the car and a smashed headlamp.
Questioned by his father, Steven has denied responsibility for the accident, but admitted he was very drunk at the time. Inspector Kleenan has found signs of recent damage on the car and has asked to see Steven.
Inspector Kleenan has questioned Steven and been puzzled by his answers. Gerald Prestley accused Kleenan of seeking not justice but vengeance, and refused to tell him how the car was damaged. Kleenan then arrested Steven.