The Defense is the ninth episode of the sixth season of Matlock, and the one hundred twenty-second episode overall.
Plot
Teenager Danny Hayes (David Kaufman) is on trial for the murder of his father, Frank (Andrew Robinson), though Matlock claims it was justifiable homicide. Danny honestly believed that his father was about to kill his mother, Christine (Jane Daly), as Frank had threatened to do so the night before (and Danny believed his father meant every word). However, the untrue testimony of his father’s best friend, Sam Parker (Clarence Felder), threatens Danny’s chances at freedom; on Matlock’s advice, Danny takes the stand and tells his side of the story.
Cast
Main
- Andy Griffith as Ben Matlock
- Nancy Stafford as Michelle Thomas
- Julie Sommars as ADA Julie March
- and Clarence Gilyard, Jr. as Conrad McMasters
Special Guest Star
- David Kaufman as Danny Hayes
Guest Starring
(in alphabetical order)
- Frances Bay as Rose Hayes
- Jane Daly as Christine Hayes
- J. Trevor Edmond as Blessing
- Clarence Felder as Sam Parker
- David Froman as Lt. Bob Brooks
- Matthew Laurance as A.D.A. Connelly
- Andrew Robinson as Frank Hayes
Co-Starring
- Leanne Griffin as Jury Foreperson
- Laurel Schaefer as Female Reporter
- F. Kahlil Wheaton as Bailiff
- Alexander Zale as Judge Alden
Trivia
- This episode heavily focuses on the long-term effects of unreported domestic abuse.
- This is also the only episode where Matlock knows from the start that his client actually committed the crime, and his goal in the episode is proving Danny’s actions were to defend his mother.
Quotes
Danny Hayes: (to his mother, Christine) I know it’s wrong to kill. But what if I hadn’t done it, and he’d killed you anyway? I had no choice, did I?
Christine Hayes: (remorsefully) Oh, Danny, the fault is mine. I should’ve reported the abuse to the police. I should’ve divorced your father years ago. And I should’ve gone with you, the night you wanted to take me away.