The Circuit

Ellis is reluctant to talk about how the meeting with his Aboriginal family went – and the unexpected appearance of his uncle in town provides a clue as to why. Rising levels of gang violence keep the court busier than ever. Tragic news rocks everyone on the team, with Bella Noble taking it particularly hard.

Matters domestic dominate as Sam Wallan takes the first tentative steps in putting his family back together, and Ellis deepens his relationship with Noble, who persuades him to give his new family another try.

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.

While Lockhart battles an inquiry into his personal conduct, the new magistrate’s “tough love” approach creates tension on the team and alienates the local elders. Wallan confronts a ghost from his past and decides to come clean.

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.

Ellis completes his journey “home” as he walks the land of his ancestors with his uncle and the elders – and gets encouragement from an unexpected source. Wallan manages to restore his own family. Lockhart finally finds a way to make a difference.