The court rules on a case involving a Federal agent who accidentally shot a state agent, and Nolan is assigned to write the majority opinion. That means all-nighters for the clerks. Meanwhile, Harlan tricks a student librarian into giving him access to the papers of Nolan's late predecessor, Christina Flynn. It opens a can of worms. And so might the appearance in Washington of Nolan's black-sheep brother.

Brandt's attempted exposé on Nolan is promoted on television without his knowledge, causing Nolan to hurriedly prepare a defence against the false charges of indiscretion. Brandt's producing partner Marsha Palmer ignores his protests and insists that he broadcast it. But he surprises everyone by publicly declaring Nolan innocent and retracting his premature accusation. Brandt's job is terminated, but he is triumphant—and Nolan is greatly relieved that she did not bring dishonour to the Supreme Court.