Lawyer Andy Carpenter and his wife, Laurie, have started a new Christmas tradition. Their local pet store has a Christmas tree where, instead of ornaments, there are wishes from those in need. One poignant wish leads Andy to a child named Danny, whose selfless plea strikes a chord. Danny asked Santa for a coat for his mother, a sweater for his dachshund Murphy, and the safe return of his missing father. It turns out that Danny's father doesn't want to be found. He's on the run after being arrested for a murder which took place fourteen years ago—a murder Danny's mother swears he didn't commit. Andy isn't easily swayed, and he and his eccentric crew must dash if they want to reunite a family in time for Christmas.