Judge Priest

A respected, affable judge who values fairness and uses humor to ease courtroom tensions. He recuses himself when bias could influence a verdict and seeks to balance justice with compassion for the people involved. After Jeff Poindexter's acquittal, he befriends him and even hires him, illustrating his belief in second chances.

A local man accused of chicken theft who becomes the focal point of a courtroom test of justice. His relationship with Judge Priest grows into a genuine mentorship and friendship, culminating in his inclusion in Priest's household.

A rival in the election for the judge's seat who uses the courtroom to push for a guilty verdict against Jeff. His political maneuvering introduces bias into the legal process and challenges Priest's impartiality.

Daughter of a late father with her own romantic aspirations. She hesitates to commit due to social expectations and is central to the Romeo-Ellie arc; her relationship with Rome is complicated by family and propriety.

Priest's nephew who has just passed the bar and is eager to practice law. He initially hopes to represent Gillis, showcasing ambition and a drive to follow in Priest's footsteps. He navigates romance with Ellie May as family expectations press him toward Virginia Maydew.

Priest's mother, a stern matriarch who enforces propriety and social order. She opposes the match between Rome and Ellie May and supports the idea that Ellie May should pursue a match with Virginia Maydew.

A local townsman who places flowers on Ellie May's late mother's grave and is later revealed as Ellie May's father. He embodies moral character that is highlighted by Reverend Brand and the community.

Unruly barber who courts Ellie May with unwelcome advances, creating tension and conflict in the town. His behavior is a catalyst for the courtroom episodes that unfold.

Local minister who vouches for Gillis's long-standing good moral character and provides moral insight that informs the case outcomes.

Aunt figure in the community who adds to the town's social texture; supportive of Priest's sense of justice and community, though not a central plot driver in the summary.

Townsman involved in the courtroom drama; his interactions help illuminate tensions between characters and biases in the town; appears in the cast.