The public never seems to get enough of the machinations and moral dilemas of high-powered lawyers. Moonchildren playwright Michael Weller's take on the trials of enviornmental law, Buying Time, returns to the Hypothetical Theatre Company's New 14th Street Y Jan. 9 for a run through Feb. 4. The play originally debuted in the same space Nov. 1, where it ran through Dec. 3.

In the world of environmental law, the firm of Donne & Russo has just won a major case that shook the government. But the attorneys' troubles are just beginning as they attempt to balance their urges to do right with their needs to make money. Their newest case, for instance, pits a penniless, endangered bird against the wealthy timber industry. The process will destroy their star litigator Bennett Traube as he becomes obsessed with an idealistic and beautiful female lawyer who is serving as house counsel to their client.

Weller is best known for penning Moonchildren. His other works include Loose Ends, Fishing, Split, Spoils of War and Lake No Bottom. Buying Time was written in 1995 and first produced at Seattle Repertory Theatre in 1996.

Amy Feinberg directs. Lee Sellars (1998's Ghosts on Fire) stars as Bennett Traube. Also in the cast are Ron Faber, Tibor Feldman, Chuck Montgomery, Irene McDonnell, Deidre O'Connell, Jennifer Gibbs, Andy Powers, David Ari and Jeff Kronson.

Tickets are $40. The New 14th Street Y is located at 344 East 14th Street. For reservations, call (212) 206-1515. The Hypothetical Theatre Company is on the web at http://www.hypotheticaltheatre.org. —By Christine Ehren