In a biting, critical look at "justice" and how it does not necessarily work, director Christian-Jaque develops this tale of murder and deception via two principle, conniving characters and their upright opponents in the legal system. Catherine (Marina Vlady) is a heartless, self-serving woman miffed at her spouse's infidelity, who murders him while he is bedridden in the hospital by inserting a toxin into his next injection. She then renews an amorous relationship with a sharp and unscrupulous lawyer, knowing he could mount the best defense for her in court. The lawyer does just that, leaving the judge and the opposing attorney with a desire to see justice done but not much recourse to implement it.