About
Silk is a British television drama series produced by the BBC and first shown in 2011. Written by Peter Moffat, the series follows a set of barristers, and what they do to attain the rank of Queen's Counsel, known as 'taking silk'. Passionate defence barrister Martha Costello faces challenging cases and surprising clients, which test her faith in the criminal justice system. Gifted colleague Clive Reader is called to the bar with her. They work hard with pupils, Nick Slade and Niamh Cranitch, but ultimately only one can eventually be taken on as a member of chambers.
Cast
Maxine Peake
as Martha Costello QC
Rupert Penry-Jones
as Clive Reader QC
Neil Stuke
as Billy Lamb
Theo Barklem-Biggs
as Jake Milner
John Macmillan
as John Bright
Alex Jennings
as Alan Cowdrey QC
Frances Barber
as Caroline Warwick QC
Amy Wren
as Bethany Brassington
Miranda Raison
as Harriet Hammond
Episodes
Series 1
The Bitter End
Having just won an important case, Martha Costello is given two new cases for the next day, with a chance of getting a good reference for her Silk application. Under huge time pressure, she has to prepare overnight. But will she be able to satisfy both the personal and the professional demands placed on her? Or will she be forced to sacrifice one case in order to win the other?
High and Dry
In an effort to boost her application, Costello accepts a rape case, against her better judgement. Even worse, Reader is prosecuting her client and delights in riling Costello. As the case draws to a close, Costello begins to realise that things aren't always black and white, especially when she makes a startling discovery.
Close Quarters
Costello defends a vulnerable teenager and the pupils are given their first opportunity to stand up in court, taking on a low-level magistrates' case. However, as the cases progress, both Costello and protégé Nick Slade find themselves in challenging positions. Can Costello defend her client without endangering not only her Silk application, but also her career?
Touch and Go
Costello is forced to defend a police officer accused of racism at the police tribunal, at the same time as trying to get bail for another client. In the meantime, pressure increases on the pupils as the tenancy deadline draws near. Meanwhile, Reader receives some astonishing news which could change not only his personal life, but life at chambers for everyone.
All Plain Sailing
Costello prosecutes a teacher accused of assaulting a pupil, but believes he is on too serious a charge and is not being properly defended by her colleague Noah Zeigler. Meanwhile, Slade takes on his first major case, and both Costello and Reader have their Silk interviews. Will Costello be able to ensure the teacher a fair trial at the same time as succeeding in her interview?
Three Sheets to the Wind
Costello takes on the biggest case of her life, defending Mark Draper, a repeat offender on a murder charge at the Old Bailey. However, when the case starts to fall apart, she must remain focused on the trial as both personal and private pressures escalate. Meanwhile, it's decision time for the pupils, and the fate of chambers hangs in the balance.
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