After 6 years in prison, Max Dembo, a career criminal is released on parole. Max wants to go straight, but doesn't like the restrictions of parole, much to the chagrin of his parole officer, Earl Frank. Some conditions -living in a half-way house, not associating with past friends and associates, no driving, and no drugs, all may be more difficult than he imagines especially as his encounters with Earl become increasingly tense. The way Max deals with Earl is the same way he deals with everything: his way or no way Through his life in the outside world, Max embarks on a relationship with Jenny Mercer, an employment agency clerk whom he meets while looking for a job. Jenny knows about his past criminal history, but he ends up only telling her so much of his current life if only to protect her - just in case.