When the local sheriff is killed after a bank robbery, ex-lawman Ben Cutler collars the apparent killer, Eddie Campbell. Because of his background as a local youth who spent time living with the Cutlers, Eddie gets the benefit of the doubt from Ben's daughter and his wife-to-be. Ben is firm in his belief that Eddie is guilty, and as the matter is debated in a divisive court battle, it will soon become clear whether he's right.

Fred MacMurray
as Marshal Ben Cutler

Margaret Hayes
as Ruth Granger

Robert Vaughn
as Eddie 'The Kid' Campbell

Joan Blackman
as Laurie Cutler

James Drury
as Paul Ridgely

Wendell Holmes
as Tallant Joslin, Prosecutor

Edmon Ryan
as William P. Selby, Attorney

Stacy Harris
as Coley

Kathryn Card
as Mrs. Molly Cain

Emile Meyer
as Marshal Hiram Cain