Series 3 · Episode 4
Blackmailing the Bench
First broadcast 28 June 2009 · 5.10 million viewers
DirectorEdward HallWriterGuy BurtOriginal order16 of 18Editorial statusOwner reviewed
Fan-reviewedAll 18 episodes watched · editorial review updated 5 September 2026How this guide is researched
The case and opening problem
A judge believes he is being blackmailed, while Lyle represents druids opposing a golf course they say disrupts ley lines.
Themes
Credited guest cast checked so far
Episode-specific guest credits are awaiting an end-credit check.
Reveal the complete plot summary — spoilers
Plot summary
A judge turns to Peter after becoming convinced that somebody is blackmailing him, drawing Beatrice into the investigation. Lyle represents a group of druids who believe a new golf course interferes with important ley lines. Both cases require the solicitors to look beyond their clients’ eccentric appearances and discover what is genuinely at stake.
What this episode changes
Beatrice becomes part of Peter’s investigation, and both cases test appearances against underlying motives.
Why this episode matters
The judge and the druids both risk dismissal because of appearances; Peter and Lyle must identify the real harm beneath an eccentric surface.
Scene log status
The story and credited names above are reviewed. Exact timestamps, music cues and scene-by-scene filming locations remain to be checked directly against a legitimate copy of the episode.