Houston Police Officer, Thomas Carruth, remembers a time when Texas justice meant criminals were punished according to their crimes. When Carruth's partner, Mike Ramirez, is killed by a gang member, he gets even by killing the entire gang. While on trial for the murders, Carruth successfully thwarts prosecution when he attempts to kill the District Attorney J.B. Thornton and ends up slaying Thornton's wife and child instead.
A couple of years pass and Carruth again administers his brand of deadly street justice. He is a powerful cop who uses his badge and gun with deadly accuracy. In response, a beautiful young lawyer, Renee Alexander, hires herself into the Thornton Law Office in order to incite Thornton, who had since become a drunk in private practice, to file a civil wrongful death case against Carruth. Their investigation, assisted by ex-cop Eddie Miles, reveals that Carruth is not alone in attempting to fill the cracks in the criminal justice system. A high-level conspiracy exists involving prominent city officials, including one of the city's power brokers, Gib Sterling, and State Judge Philip Voss.
After Carruth kidnaps Renee's daughter, Claire, and the investigation is nearing a resolution, the stakes are raised to a high pitch and a twisting conclusion.