Rafferty's Rules was an Australian television drama series which ran from 1987 to 1990 on the Seven Network. Rafferty's Rules was one of the first programs undertaken by the Seven Network's then new in-house drama unit, going into production in May 1985 as "a 15-part courtroom drama". The program had started out as a pilot episode, recorded in early 1984 with the actor Chris Haywood in the lead role. When the pilot episode was remounted later in 1984, Chris Haywood wasn't available and the lead role was re-cast to John Wood. This second recording was eventually broadcast as the program's first episode.
Episode 1
Michael Aloysius Rafferty starts his new job as Stipendiary Magistrate of Manly Local Court.
Episode 2
Rafferty's estranged wife Joanne arrives in Sydney to discuss a few things and he is anxious. Meanwhile, Paulyne has a crisis of conscience when she has to act for a man in an assault case.
Episode 3
Rafferty deals with a young prostitute and U.S. government officials apply to extradite one of their citizens.
Episode 4
Rafferty is angry when a drugs case he was listed to deal with is suddenly moved to another court and confronts the Chief Magistrate about the matter.
Episode 5
Rafferty is forced to examine his attitude towards women.
Episode 6
Rafferty feels alone with his recent move to the city.
Episode 7
Rafferty has no choice but to dismiss a big drug case.
Episode 8
Rafferty hears two cases about people's desire to look good.
Episode 9
A young prostitute decides to defend herself against a soliciting charge.
Episode 10
An Italian father and his brother plant a bomb in Rafferty's chambers.
Episode 11
Rafferty investigates what appears to be an accidental death by drowning.
Episode 12
A young drifter comes before Rafferty's court for being in possession of a cat skin.
Episode 13
Rafferty's cases reflect people invading other people's privacy.
Episode 14
Rafferty finds that people and things are not always as they seem.
Episode 15
Rafferty realises that the media makes innocent people look like monsters.
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