In an era brimming with compelling television, the Lawyer Drama Series genre stands out for its captivating blend of intricate legal battles, complex characters, and high-stakes personal narratives. For viewers who have spent countless hours immersed in the gripping world of legal television, the intricacies of courtroom procedure and the strategic minds of attorneys might feel almost second nature. From meticulous procedural dramas to series that delve deep into character studies, the landscape of lawyer drama series is rich and varied, offering something for every taste. The appeal of these shows is not new; it stretches back to the very beginnings of television.
In 1957, Perry Mason debuted, establishing a benchmark for the genre with Raymond Burr in the lead role for a decade, showcasing the enduring fascination with legal narratives. Matlock followed in the 1980s, enjoying a similarly long run. The genre evolved, shifting from solo lawyer narratives to ensemble casts, depicting teams of attorneys working alongside law enforcement. Today, every major network and streaming platform contributes to the vast catalog of lawyer drama series, though the quality and impact vary significantly. This list explores some of the most compelling lawyer drama series that have captivated audiences, offering a spectrum of legal worlds from the thrilling to the thought-provoking.
30. Accused (2023-)
Court Cases From The Accused’s Point Of View
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Accused TV Poster
Accused presents a unique anthology format within the lawyer drama series world, diving into criminal cases from the perspective of those standing trial. Each episode is a standalone story, skillfully navigating the ethical and moral quandaries faced by individuals caught in the legal system. This series offers a nuanced examination of criminal justice, revealing the intricate web of circumstances and decisions that lead to the courtroom.
Howard Gordon, known for Homeland, adapted the British series Accused for American audiences on Fox in 2023. Mirroring its UK predecessor, which aired from 2010 to 2012, the US version focuses on individuals accused of crimes, unfolding narratives that explore the events leading to their charges and the ensuing trials. The anthology approach is strengthened by high-profile guest stars, adding depth and intrigue to each distinct episode. A key element that makes Accused a standout courtroom drama is its commitment to exploring the backstories of the accused, often revealing mitigating circumstances and complexities that challenge viewers’ perceptions of guilt and innocence, taking the stories in unexpected directions.
29. All Rise (2019-2023)
A Courtroom Drama In Los Angeles
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All Rise (2019)
All Rise, which premiered on CBS in 2019, quickly became a critical favorite, offering a fresh perspective within the lawyer drama series genre. Set in the bustling Los Angeles courthouse, the series delves into the interwoven personal and professional lives of judges, lawyers, clerks, bailiffs, and law enforcement officers. While cases are central to the narrative, All Rise distinguishes itself by focusing on the human element within the legal system, exploring the daily challenges and ethical dilemmas these professionals face as they strive for justice.
Simone Missick stars as Lola Carmichael, a former prosecutor turned judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Her character drives the series’ exploration of judicial boundaries and expectations. All Rise was praised for its attempt to represent a more contemporary and diverse legal environment. Despite cancellation by CBS after two seasons, its dedicated fanbase led to its revival for a third and final season on OWN in 2022 and 2023. Although critical reception was mixed, its popularity is evident in its award nominations and win, including an ASCAP Screen Music Award in 2020.
28. Murder One (1995-1997)
A High Profile Defense Attorney In Action
Murder One is a lawyer drama series that was remarkably ahead of its time. In an era when most legal dramas resolved cases within a single episode, Murder One, debuting in 1995 on ABC, innovatively dedicated its entire first season to a single, complex case. This groundbreaking format allowed for deeper character development and a more realistic portrayal of the protracted nature of high-stakes legal proceedings.
Theodore Hoffman, played by Daniel Benzali, is the central figure, a high-profile defense attorney whose firm tackles a major murder case that unfolds throughout the season. While the primary focus is on this overarching narrative, the series also includes weekly cases handled by the supporting cast, maintaining a balance between serialized storytelling and episodic legal drama. The second season adopted a similar structure, with Anthony LaPaglia taking the lead as Jimmy Wyler. Produced by Steven Bochco, known for L.A. Law, Murder One garnered critical acclaim from its inception. Despite its success and numerous accolades, including Golden Globe and Primetime Emmy nominations and wins, the series concluded after two seasons and 41 episodes, leaving a lasting impact on the lawyer drama series landscape.
27. Silk (2011-2014)
A TV Series In The British Court System
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Silk offers a distinctive entry into the lawyer drama series genre by immersing viewers in the British legal system. Created by Peter Moffat, also known for Your Honor, this BBC series provides a stark contrast to American legal dramas, presenting a different set of courtroom procedures and legal ethics. Silk meticulously portrays the daily operations of Shoe Lane Chambers, a set of barristers specializing in criminal law. The show’s authenticity is rooted in Moffat’s own experience as a barrister before transitioning to playwriting and television, lending credibility to its depiction of life at the bar.
The cast of Silk in a promo photo
Moffat’s intention, as quoted in The Guardian, was to depict the reality of the legal profession – “the extreme pressure, the hard choices, the ethical dilemmas, the overlap between the personal and the professional.” Maxine Peake stars as Martha Costello, a central barrister navigating complex criminal cases. Silk ran for three seasons, each consisting of six episodes, a common format for British dramas. The series was critically well-received, particularly for its performances and its realistic portrayal of the intense competition and ethical battles within the legal world.
26. She-Hulk: Attorney At Law (2022)
A Marvel Superhero Attorney Series
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She-Hulk: Attorney at Law injects a dose of Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) quirkiness into the lawyer drama series genre. Released on Disney+ in 2022, this series blends superhero action with legal comedy, creating a unique viewing experience. Jennifer Walters, played by Tatiana Maslany, is a lawyer and the cousin of Bruce Banner (the Hulk). After an accident, she gains Hulk-like powers but, unlike Bruce, maintains control over her transformations.
Created in 1979 by Stan Lee, She-Hulk’s comic origins are faithfully adapted, with Jennifer balancing her legal career with her newfound superhero identity. The series stands out for its comedic approach, including She-Hulk breaking the fourth wall, a characteristic true to the comic books. As a lawyer drama series, She-Hulk focuses on Jennifer leading a superhero law division, representing superpowered individuals and tackling cases that often involve the absurdities of superhero law. The series also cleverly addresses themes of toxic masculinity and comic fandom culture. While She-Hulk proved to be somewhat polarizing among audiences, its creative approach and unique tone mark it as a distinctive entry in both the MCU and the lawyer drama series genre.
25. The Lincoln Lawyer (2022 – )
The Adaptation of Michael Connelly’s Novels
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The Lincoln Lawyer – Season 2 | Season Poster
The Lincoln Lawyer has quickly become a prominent name in lawyer drama series, especially on Netflix, known for its engaging and fast-paced storytelling. Adapted from Michael Connelly’s acclaimed novels, the series stars Manuel Garcia-Rulfo as Mickey Haller, a defense attorney who famously operates his practice out of his Lincoln Town Car in Los Angeles. This premise, familiar from the Matthew McConaughey film adaptation, finds new life in the series format, allowing for deeper exploration of Connelly’s intricate plots and character-driven narratives.
Garcia-Rulfo brings his own interpretation to Mickey Haller, leading viewers through a series of entertaining cases filled with action and intrigue, often navigating morally ambiguous territories. The series has resonated with audiences, with the first season receiving stronger critical acclaim than the second, yet maintaining a strong viewership on Netflix. The popularity of The Lincoln Lawyer has ensured its renewal, with season 3 already in production, further cementing its place in the contemporary lawyer drama series landscape.
24. Rake (2010 – 2018)
An Australian Legal Drama
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Rake (2010) – Poster
For viewers seeking lawyer drama series beyond the typical American setting, Rake, an Australian production, offers a refreshing and darkly humorous alternative. This series centers on Cleaver Greene, played by Richard Roxburgh, a brilliant yet self-destructive criminal defense barrister. Rake distinguishes itself with its protagonist, who is far from the traditional heroic lawyer. Greene is flawed, chaotic, and often morally questionable, adding a layer of complexity rarely seen in the genre.
The series masterfully blends legal drama with dark comedy, portraying Greene navigating the Australian legal system while managing a tumultuous personal life. His cases are often bizarre and seemingly hopeless, and he takes a peculiar pleasure in defending guilty clients, sometimes featuring notable guest stars like Sam Neill and Hugo Weaving. Rake garnered numerous nominations at Australian award shows, with Roxburgh winning an Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts Award for his performance. The show’s popularity led to an American remake in 2014, though it failed to capture the same audience appeal as the original, highlighting the unique charm and appeal of the Australian lawyer drama series.
23. Perry Mason (2020 – 2023)
The Remake Of The Classic Lawyer Series
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Perry Mason TV Poster
Taking on the legacy of a beloved classic is always a challenge, but the 2020 Perry Mason remake successfully reimagined this iconic lawyer drama series for a modern audience. Matthew Rhys steps into the role of Perry Mason, in this HBO Max series, set in 1930s Los Angeles. This iteration presents Mason not as the polished lawyer of the original series, but as a down-on-his-luck attorney navigating a world of murder, corruption, and scandal.
The remake serves as a prequel, exploring Mason’s origins and his transformation into the famed defense attorney. Rhys’s compelling performance and the show’s noir-infused style distinguish it from contemporary legal procedurals, offering a visually and narratively rich experience. Despite critical acclaim and recognition as one of the best Max original series, Perry Mason was canceled after two seasons. The series received several nominations, including Critics Choice, Golden Globe, and Emmy nods, recognizing its quality and impact within the lawyer drama series genre. Tatiana Maslany won a Hollywood Critics Association Award for her role in the series, further highlighting the remake’s strengths.
22. American Crime Story (2016 – )
Ryan Murphy’s True-Crime Retellings
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American Crime Story TV Poster
Ryan Murphy, a titan of television known for anthology series like American Horror Story, expanded his anthology approach into the true-crime genre with American Crime Story. This FX series delves into real high-profile trials and criminal cases that have captivated public attention, making it a unique entry among lawyer drama series. Each season is self-contained, featuring a new cast and focusing on a different landmark American crime.
With three seasons to date, American Crime Story has tackled murder trials and political scandals, offering a dramatized yet meticulously researched account of each event. The series has garnered significant acclaim, winning multiple Golden Globes and Emmy Awards. For newcomers, the first season, The People vs. OJ Simpson, is highly recommended. It recreates the infamous OJ Simpson trial with a blend of camp and compelling drama, anchored by an outstanding ensemble cast including Sarah Paulson, Courtney B. Vance, and John Travolta. This season is widely regarded as the pinnacle of the anthology series, showcasing the power of true-crime narratives within the lawyer drama series framework.
21. Eli Stone (2008 – 2009)
A Fantastical Legal Comedy-Drama
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Eli Stone distinguishes itself in the lawyer drama series genre by injecting a significant dose of humor and fantasy into its legal narratives. Created by Greg Berlanti and Marc Guggenheim, this comedy-drama series sets itself apart from the often serious and procedural tone of typical legal shows. The show centers on Eli Stone, played by Jonny Lee Miller, a San Francisco lawyer who begins experiencing hallucinations that he interprets as messages guiding him toward a more purposeful life.
The series blends legal cases with surreal and often humorous elements. Eli often takes on cases that are morally significant but financially unrewarding, driven by his visions and a newfound sense of ethical responsibility. The show’s whimsical nature, with Eli hallucinating and making eerily accurate predictions, adds a unique layer to the lawyer drama series format. Despite its originality and charm, Eli Stone was canceled after two seasons, leaving fans wanting more and without a complete resolution to its storylines. Julie Gonzalo received an ALMA Award for her supporting role in the series, acknowledging its diverse cast and engaging stories.
20. Fearless (2017)
A London-Based Legal Drama Miniseries
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While many popular lawyer drama series originate from the U.S., Fearless shifts the focus to the U.K. legal system. This six-part limited series, set in London, centers on Emma Banville, a human rights lawyer played by Helen McCrory. Fearless stands out for its intense, focused narrative, as Emma dedicates herself to proving the innocence of a man convicted of murdering a schoolgirl 14 years prior.
With a strong ensemble cast including Michael Gambon, Fearless delivers a powerful and dramatic legal thriller within a concise miniseries format. Directed by Pete Travis, known for films like Dredd, the series has a cinematic quality, enhancing its dramatic impact. Fearless garnered praise for McCrory’s lead performance and its compelling storyline. Although some hoped for a continuation beyond the initial limited series, it remains a standout example of a gripping and well-crafted British lawyer drama series.
19. Matlock (1986 – 1995)
One of The Original Legal Dramas
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Matlock, debuting in 1986, represents a classic era of lawyer drama series, becoming a staple of television for nearly a decade. Starring Andy Griffith as Ben Matlock, the series introduced a memorable protagonist – a seemingly folksy yet exceptionally astute defense attorney. Matlock not only defended his clients in court but also actively investigated cases, often uncovering crucial evidence himself. This blend of courtroom drama and detective work made Matlock distinct and highly appealing to audiences.
Ben Matlock, with his disarming demeanor and sharp legal mind, became a beloved character. Often compared to Columbo but in a legal setting, Matlock solved cases with a methodical approach and Southern charm. The series enjoyed a long and successful run, moving from NBC to ABC and then into syndication, totaling nine seasons and 193 episodes. Matlock received Emmy nominations and wins during its run, solidifying its place as a significant lawyer drama series. Its enduring popularity is evident in the recent announcement of a modern reboot starring Kathy Bates, proving the timeless appeal of the Matlock formula.
18. Bull (2016 – 2022)
Based On The Career Of Dr. Phil McGraw
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Bull (2016)
Bull, which premiered on CBS in 2016, brought a unique angle to the lawyer drama series genre by focusing on jury consulting rather than traditional legal proceedings. Starring Michael Weatherly, formerly of NCIS, as Dr. Jason Bull, the series is loosely based on the early career of Dr. Phil McGraw. Dr. Bull heads a jury consulting firm, employing psychology, human intuition, and data analysis to help clients select favorable jurors and craft persuasive arguments.
Bull offered viewers a behind-the-scenes look at courtroom strategy, shifting the focus from legal investigations and courtroom battles to the subtle art of jury manipulation and persuasion. This fresh perspective, combined with Weatherly’s star power, helped Bull attract a significant audience and maintain a six-season run. The series provided a different lens through which to view legal dramas, emphasizing the psychological aspects of trials and the influence of jury dynamics, making it a distinctive addition to the lawyer drama series landscape.
17. Ally McBeal (1997 – 2002)
A Whimsical Fantasy Legal Drama
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Ally McBeal, debuting on Fox in 1997, was a truly unique and whimsical entry into the lawyer drama series genre. Created by David E. Kelley, also known for Boston Legal, Ally McBeal blended legal drama with comedy, fantasy sequences, and a strong focus on the personal and professional life of its title character, Ally McBeal, played by Calista Flockhart. Set in a Boston law firm, the series was known for its quirky humor, surreal fantasy sequences, and musical interludes, setting it apart from more traditional legal dramas.
Ally McBeal featured an ensemble cast, including Robert Downey Jr. and Lucy Liu, and addressed contemporary social issues through its often unconventional cases and character interactions. The show achieved a perfect balance between humor and drama, using legal proceedings and fantasy elements to explore Ally’s emotional and professional journey. Ally McBeal became a cultural phenomenon, even spawning one of the first internet memes, the Dancing Baby. The series was highly acclaimed, winning multiple Emmy Awards and Golden Globes, and remains a memorable and innovative lawyer drama series.
16. Reasonable Doubt (2017 – )
A True-Crime Legal Series
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Reasonable Doubt 2017 TV Show Poster
While numerous shows share the title Reasonable Doubt, the 2017 series stands out as a unique and compelling entry in the lawyer drama series category. Unlike the fictional dramas on this list, Reasonable Doubt is a true-crime series on Investigation Discovery. This series takes a documentary approach to legal drama, examining closed murder cases to determine if there is genuine reasonable doubt about the convicted person’s guilt.
Reasonable Doubt features two investigators – a retired homicide detective and a criminal defense attorney – who re-examine controversial murder cases. They delve into evidence, interview witnesses, and uncover hidden details, exploring the possibility of wrongful convictions. The series offers a gripping and often emotionally charged look at the real-life consequences of the legal system. Reasonable Doubt provides a unique perspective by investigating the potential flaws within seemingly clear-cut cases, making it a standout and binge-worthy true-crime lawyer drama series that is often overlooked.
15. Your Honor (2020-2022)
A Judge Goes Corrupt To Save His Son
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Your Honor TV Show Poster
Your Honor, starring Bryan Cranston, offers a dark and morally complex take on the lawyer drama series. Cranston plays Michael Desiato, a respected judge whose life unravels when his son is involved in a hit-and-run accident. This Showtime series, initially conceived as a miniseries but extended for a second season due to its popularity, delves into the ethical compromises and desperate measures a father takes to protect his child.
Your Honor distinguishes itself as a serialized legal drama, diverging from the procedural format. The series explores themes of justice, loyalty, and morality, presenting a compelling narrative where a judge, sworn to uphold the law, is forced to navigate a treacherous path of corruption and deceit. Cranston’s portrayal of a flawed protagonist, reminiscent of Walter White from Breaking Bad, adds depth and intensity to the series. While some critics noted the recurring trope of “good men doing bad things,” Your Honor captivated audiences with its suspenseful plot and Cranston’s powerful performance, making it a noteworthy and intense lawyer drama series.
14. How To Get Away With Murder (2014 – 2020)
An Instructor Teaching Law Students Is Involved In A Murder
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How to Get Away with Murder brings a thrilling and suspenseful twist to the lawyer drama series genre. Created by Shonda Rhimes and starring Viola Davis, this ABC series centers on Annalise Keating, a law professor and criminal defense attorney. The series kicks off when Annalise’s law students become entangled in a murder, plunging them into a web of lies, deceit, and intrigue.
The show masterfully blends legal cases with a central, overarching murder mystery that evolves season after season. How to Get Away with Murder stands out for its dramatic intensity and complex characters, particularly Annalise Keating, portrayed by Viola Davis in an Emmy-winning performance – she was the first Black woman to win Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. The series explores the dark side of the legal profession and the moral compromises its characters make, creating a captivating and highly-rated lawyer drama series.
13. L.A. Law (1986 – 1994)
A Los Angeles Law Firm
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L.A. Law
Before Law & Order dominated the procedural landscape, L.A. Law set a high standard for lawyer drama series in the 1980s and early 1990s. Created by Steven Bochco, also behind NYPD Blue, L.A. Law offered a glimpse inside a prominent Los Angeles law firm, McKenzie, Brackman, Chaney, and Kuzak. The series featured a large ensemble cast, including Harry Hamlin and Corbin Bernsen, and explored both the professional and personal lives of the attorneys, balancing complex legal cases with social and office politics.
L.A. Law was known for tackling contemporary social issues and drawing inspiration from real-life headlines for its cases. Unlike many legal dramas that focus on police procedure, L.A. Law centered squarely on the lawyers and their legal strategies. The series was critically acclaimed and commercially successful, winning numerous Emmy Awards and Golden Globes during its eight-season run. L.A. Law is considered a landmark lawyer drama series that paved the way for many subsequent legal shows, though a planned sequel series in 2020 was eventually canceled, its legacy remains strong.
12. Suits (2011 – 2019)
A Law Firm Brings In An Unlicensed Attorney
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Suits TV Show Poster
Suits offers a sleek and stylish take on the lawyer drama series, focusing more on the inner dynamics of a high-powered New York City law firm than on the intricacies of courtroom cases. The series revolves around Mike Ross, played by Patrick J. Adams, who, despite lacking a law degree, uses his photographic memory to become a successful lawyer at a prestigious firm. This central premise drives the series’ drama, as Mike and his colleagues navigate complex legal battles while keeping his secret hidden.
Suits is characterized by its fast-paced dialogue, sharp wit, and focus on character relationships within the firm. While legal cases are present, the show is more about the personalities and power struggles among the lawyers, often featuring intense office politics and dramatic personal lives. Despite mixed critical reception, Suits gained a large and dedicated fanbase and enjoyed a nine-season run. Gina Torres won awards for her performance in the series, and its recent resurgence in popularity on streaming platforms, breaking Netflix viewership records, has led to the development of a spin-off series, Suits L.A., demonstrating the enduring appeal of this lawyer drama series.
11. Goliath (2016 – 2021)
A Down On His Luck Attorney
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Goliath, a Prime Video original series starring Billy Bob Thornton, provides a gritty and compelling lawyer drama series centered on a down-on-his-luck attorney seeking redemption. Thornton plays Billy McBride, a once-successful lawyer now struggling and disillusioned, who takes on a wrongful death lawsuit against a powerful corporate adversary. Goliath stands out for its portrayal of corruption within the legal system and its focus on the David-versus-Goliath struggle, where the underdog lawyer battles against immense odds.
Goliath is notable for Thornton’s powerful performance, which earned him a Golden Globe Award. The series explores the darker aspects of the legal world, highlighting how wealth and power can influence justice. Billy McBride is a complex and flawed protagonist, driven by a desire for justice and personal redemption. Goliath maintained critical acclaim across its four seasons, all of which are rated “fresh” on Rotten Tomatoes, solidifying its place as a well-regarded and impactful lawyer drama series.
