Guy Stevens, a young and struggling barrister is put out at the prospect of haing to share his room in Chambers with his boss's niece. Not only does he have to cede his desk and chair in favour of a discarded one in a draughty corner, he has the chagrin of seeing this young woman, cool and full of self-confidence, arrive armed with an interesting and highly-marked brief.
When the opportunity presents itself for him to appear for the opposite side in her case he does so with relish, intending to annihilate her in court.
Portia's inexperience makes this easier than Guy imagined which robs him of the full flavour of victory and when the Judge bullies Portia for refusing to accept the verdict, Guy's feelings take a protective turn. Guy realises he loves and admires this woman.
Both in disgrace for speaking out against the Judge, Portia's uncle is able to pacify the Judge and ensure a happy ending to the play.