The Rainmaker

Rudy Baylor graduates from the University of Memphis Law School, filled with hope and ambition. However, unlike his peers, he lacks the connections necessary to secure a high-paying job immediately.

As Rudy struggles to find work, he works part-time serving drinks at a Memphis bar. The oversaturated legal market in Memphis forces him to take desperate measures.

In his search for employment, Rudy interviews with the ruthless personal injury lawyer, J. Lyman 'Bruiser' Stone. Despite his reservations, Rudy takes the position, setting the stage for his future legal battles.

To earn his keep, Rudy is forced into the role of an ambulance chaser, tasked with finding potential clients in local hospitals. This morally ambiguous job sharply contrasts with his ideals as a law graduate.

At the firm, Rudy meets Deck Shifflet, a disgraced former insurance assessor turned paralegal. Deck's resourcefulness and insider knowledge of insurance lawsuits make him a valuable ally in Rudy's quest for justice.

Rudy lands his first case involving Great Benefit, an insurance company accused of bad faith for denying coverage to a dying young man. With the potential for a significant payday looming, Rudy feels the weight of his financial troubles.

After weeks of preparation, Rudy successfully passes the Tennessee bar exam. Although this is a significant achievement, he still lacks the license to officially practice law in court.

During a critical court session for the Great Benefit case, Rudy attempts to argue on behalf of his clients due to Bruiser's absence. However, Judge Harvey Hale reprimands him for lacking proper licensing, indicating the challenges ahead.

In a shocking turn of events, police and FBI raid Bruiser's offices on suspicion of racketeering. Before vanishing, Bruiser provides Rudy and Deck with cash, leaving them to fend for themselves.

Rudy and Deck decide to start their own practice, determined to pursue the Great Benefit case without any formal support. This bold decision marks a significant shift in their legal careers and introduces new challenges.

Rudy diligently prepares for the trial while also navigating his personal life. He becomes emotionally involved with Kelly Riker, a woman he met at the hospital who has faced brutal domestic abuse.

Tragedy strikes when Donny Ray, the young man at the center of the case, passes away. Before his death, he provides a video deposition that will become crucial in the upcoming trial against Great Benefit.

The trial begins, and Rudy faces the seasoned and cunning defense attorney, Leo F. Drummond, who uses underhanded tactics to undermine Rudy's case. Despite these obstacles, Rudy's determination shines through.

Against all odds, Rudy wins the case, earning a substantial jury award for the Black family. However, Great Benefit swiftly declares bankruptcy to avoid payouts, leaving Rudy and the clients with little reward.

Disillusioned by the legal system's flaws, Rudy decides to leave the practice of law. He chooses to become a law teacher, focusing on ethics, while embarking on a new life with Kelly, away from the chaos.