An introduction briefly reviews the powers, duties, and responsibilities of the police and changing social conditions, characterized by rising crime and a growing disrespect for authority. The film details the two most basic factors of the arrest process: the right to arrest and probable cause. Short film sequences of both lawful and unlawful arrests illustrate when a police officer has the right to search a suspect, what an arrested person can be searched for, and why there are exceptions to the fourth amendment. Guidelines to aid in understanding the ramifications of probable cause are also discussed. At the end of each reel, a panel of law enforcement officials from the New England area responds to questions raised by the viewing and studio audience.