Legal dramas have captivated television audiences for decades, offering a fascinating glimpse into the complex world of law, justice, and human nature. From classic courtroom procedurals to modern, character-driven series, Lawyer Shows On Tv provide a compelling mix of intrigue, morality, and high-stakes conflict. For viewers seeking captivating stories and sharp legal minds in action, here’s a guide to some of the most outstanding lawyer shows available.
Accused (2023-Present)
Examining Crime from the Defendant’s Perspective
Accused TV Poster
Accused, developed for American television by Howard Gordon of Homeland fame, presents a gripping anthology format where each episode unfolds from the perspective of someone accused of a crime. Inspired by the original British series, this legal drama meticulously unravels the circumstances leading to the accusation, exploring moral ambiguities and the complexities of the justice system. Star-studded casts, including Abigail Breslin and Jason Ritter, bring depth to these standalone narratives, making Accused a standout among contemporary lawyer shows on TV for its unique narrative structure and intense character studies. It challenges viewers to consider the stories behind the headlines, making it more than just another courtroom procedural.
All Rise (2019-2023)
A Glimpse Inside the Los Angeles Legal System
All Rise (2019)
All Rise offers a vibrant and engaging portrayal of the Los Angeles County courthouse, moving beyond the typical courtroom drama to explore the intertwined personal and professional lives of judges, lawyers, and court staff. Simone Missick shines as Lola Carmichael, a passionate and newly appointed judge who challenges conventions and strives for justice within a complex system. This series distinguishes itself by focusing not just on the cases, but on the human element within the legal system. Its initial run on CBS, followed by a revival on OWN, speaks to its resonant storytelling and dedicated fanbase, making it a noteworthy addition to lawyer shows on TV that emphasize character development and behind-the-scenes perspectives.
Murder One (1995-1997)
Pioneering Season-Long Case Storytelling in Legal TV
Murder One broke ground in the legal drama genre by dedicating each season to a single, complex case, a narrative approach now common but revolutionary for its time. Set in Los Angeles, the first season centers on defense attorney Theodore Hoffman, played by Daniel Benzali, as he navigates a high-profile murder trial involving a celebrity defendant. This innovative structure allowed for deeper exploration of legal strategy, character development, and the intricacies of a protracted legal battle. Murder One‘s critical acclaim and numerous award nominations, including Golden Globes and Primetime Emmys, underscore its impact and lasting influence on lawyer shows on TV, proving that serialized storytelling could thrive in the legal drama format.
Silk (2011-2014)
British Barristers and Courtroom Battles
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The cast of Silk in a promo photo
Silk provides a compelling look into the British legal system, a refreshing departure from the predominantly American setting of most lawyer shows on TV. Created by Peter Moffat, drawing from his own experiences as a barrister, the series realistically depicts the intense pressures, ethical dilemmas, and competitive environment of criminal law barristers at Shoe Lane Chambers. Maxine Peake delivers a powerful performance as Martha Costello, a determined barrister navigating complex cases and striving to achieve “silk,” the coveted Queen’s Counsel designation. Silk‘s critical praise stems from its authentic portrayal of the legal profession and its nuanced exploration of the personal and professional lives of those within it.
She-Hulk: Attorney at Law (2022)
Marvel’s Meta-Legal Comedy with a Superhero Twist
She-Hulk: Attorney at Law injects a dose of Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) humor and superhero action into the legal drama genre. Tatiana Maslany stars as Jennifer Walters, Bruce Banner’s cousin, who juggles her career as a lawyer specializing in superhuman law with her newfound ability to transform into She-Hulk. This Disney+ series uniquely blends courtroom proceedings with superhero narratives, breaking the fourth wall in a style reminiscent of Deadpool. She-Hulk stands out among lawyer shows on TV for its comedic tone, self-aware humor, and exploration of contemporary themes through a superhero lens, appealing to both MCU fans and those seeking a lighter take on legal dramas.
The Lincoln Lawyer (2022-Present)
Michael Connelly’s Novels Brought to Life on Netflix
The Lincoln Lawyer – Season 2 | Season Poster
The Lincoln Lawyer, adapted from Michael Connelly’s popular novels, has become a streaming sensation on Netflix. Manuel Garcia-Rulfo embodies Mickey Haller, a charismatic defense attorney who operates his practice from the back of his Lincoln Town Car in Los Angeles. The series captures the fast-paced, gritty world of criminal defense in LA, with compelling cases and a morally complex protagonist. Its popularity and critical reception have solidified The Lincoln Lawyer as a must-watch among modern lawyer shows on TV, praised for its engaging storytelling and Garcia-Rulfo’s captivating performance.
Rake (2010-2018)
Australian Legal Chaos with a Flawed Hero
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Rake, an Australian legal dramedy, offers a darkly humorous and unconventional take on the genre. Richard Roxburgh stars as Cleaver Greene, a brilliant but self-destructive criminal defense barrister whose personal life is as chaotic as his legal career. Set in Sydney, the series tackles a range of bizarre and often hopeless cases, highlighting Greene’s flawed character and his penchant for defending the guilty. Rake distinguishes itself with its sharp wit, irreverent humor, and Roxburgh’s compelling performance, offering a unique perspective within the landscape of lawyer shows on TV. Its success led to an American remake, though the original remains the more critically acclaimed version.
Perry Mason (2020-2023)
Reimagining a Legal Legend in Noir Style
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HBO’s Perry Mason is a stylish and gritty reboot of the classic legal drama, reimagining the iconic character as a down-on-his-luck private investigator in 1930s Los Angeles. Matthew Rhys delivers a commanding performance as Mason, navigating a world of corruption, murder, and scandal in a visually stunning noir setting. This series sets itself apart from traditional lawyer shows on TV by focusing on Mason’s origins and the dark, atmospheric world he inhabits. Despite its critical acclaim and award nominations, Perry Mason was unfortunately canceled after two seasons, leaving a legacy of sophisticated storytelling and compelling character work.
American Crime Story (2016-Present)
True Crime Anthology Examining Landmark Cases
American Crime Story TV Poster
Ryan Murphy’s American Crime Story anthology series delves into infamous true crime cases that have shaped American culture. Each season presents a self-contained narrative with a new cast, meticulously recreating and examining landmark legal events. The first season, The People v. O.J. Simpson, is widely considered a masterpiece, offering a gripping and nuanced portrayal of the Simpson trial with an exceptional ensemble cast including Sarah Paulson and Sterling K. Brown. American Crime Story stands out among lawyer shows on TV for its commitment to historical accuracy, its exploration of social and political contexts, and its consistently high production quality and performances.
Eli Stone (2008-2009)
A Lawyer Guided by Visions and Humor
Eli Stone offers a unique blend of legal drama, comedy, and fantasy. Jonny Lee Miller stars as Eli Stone, a San Francisco lawyer who begins experiencing hallucinations that lead him to question his career and seek a more meaningful purpose. The series incorporates surreal elements and humor into its legal cases, setting it apart from more conventional lawyer shows on TV. Eli Stone explores themes of morality, purpose, and personal transformation, with Stone often taking on cases with ethical rather than financial rewards. Though short-lived, it gained a dedicated following for its quirky charm and Miller’s engaging performance.
Fearless (2017)
UK Legal Intrigue in a Limited Series Format
Fearless is a gripping British legal drama miniseries that focuses on Emma Banville, a human rights lawyer played by the late Helen McCrory. Set in London, the six-part series follows Banville’s relentless pursuit to exonerate a man convicted of murder, delving into political conspiracies and complex legal battles. Fearless distinguishes itself with its intense focus on human rights law and its cinematic quality, directed by Pete Travis of Dredd fame. McCrory’s powerful performance and the series’ tight narrative make it a compelling, albeit brief, entry in the realm of lawyer shows on TV.
Matlock (1986-1995)
Classic Legal Sleuthing with a Folksy Charm
Linda Purl In The 62nd Monte Carlo TV Festival – Nominees Party
Matlock, starring Andy Griffith, is a beloved classic among lawyer shows on TV. Ben Matlock is a seemingly folksy but brilliant defense attorney in Atlanta who often acts as a detective to prove his clients’ innocence. The series blends courtroom drama with elements of mystery, as Matlock meticulously investigates cases, often uncovering crucial evidence himself. Its long run and enduring popularity are testaments to Griffith’s charismatic performance and the show’s comforting, procedural format. The upcoming reboot with Kathy Bates highlights the lasting appeal of the Matlock formula.
Bull (2016-2022)
Trial Science and Jury Psychology in the Courtroom
Bull (2016)
Bull offers a unique perspective on legal dramas by focusing on jury consulting rather than traditional law practice. Michael Weatherly stars as Dr. Jason Bull, a psychologist and trial science expert who uses his understanding of human behavior to help his clients win cases. Loosely based on the early career of Dr. Phil McGraw, Bull explores the fascinating world of jury selection, trial strategy, and the psychological factors that influence courtroom outcomes. This series stands out for its focus on the science behind trials, providing a different angle on lawyer shows on TV and attracting viewers with its blend of psychology and legal intrigue.
Ally McBeal (1997-2002)
Whimsical Legal Fantasy with a Pop Culture Edge
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Ally McBeal was a cultural phenomenon in the late 1990s, blending legal drama with comedy, fantasy sequences, and a distinctive whimsical style. Calista Flockhart starred as Ally McBeal, a young lawyer navigating her personal and professional life at a Boston law firm. Created by David E. Kelley, the series was known for its quirky characters, dream sequences, musical numbers, and exploration of relationship dynamics. Ally McBeal broke ground in its unconventional approach to the legal drama, becoming a pop culture touchstone and winning numerous awards, making it a memorable and influential entry among lawyer shows on TV.
Reasonable Doubt (2017-Present)
Real Cases Re-Examined in a True Crime Format
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Investigation Discovery’s Reasonable Doubt takes a true-crime approach to the legal drama format. This reality series follows a retired homicide detective and a criminal defense attorney as they re-examine controversial murder cases to determine if there is legitimate doubt about the convicted person’s guilt. Reasonable Doubt stands apart from fictional lawyer shows on TV by investigating real-life cases and exploring the complexities of the justice system from a factual perspective. It offers a compelling and often emotionally charged look at potential wrongful convictions, making it a standout for viewers interested in true crime and legal analysis.
Your Honor (2020-2022)
Moral Corruption and High-Stakes Decisions
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Your Honor, starring Bryan Cranston, is a gripping serialized legal thriller. Cranston plays Michael Desiato, a respected New Orleans judge whose life unravels when his son is involved in a hit-and-run accident. The series explores themes of morality, corruption, and the lengths a father will go to protect his child. Your Honor distinguishes itself from procedural lawyer shows on TV with its serialized storytelling and its focus on the ethical compromises and escalating consequences faced by its protagonist. Cranston’s compelling performance and the show’s intense drama made it a critically acclaimed and popular series.
How to Get Away with Murder (2014-2020)
Law Students Entangled in Deception and Crime
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Viola Davis In The Literacy Partners Evening of Readings & Gala Dinner at Pier Sixty
How to Get Away with Murder, produced by Shonda Rhimes, is a suspenseful and twist-filled legal drama. Viola Davis stars as Annalise Keating, a brilliant law professor and criminal defense attorney whose students become entangled in a murder mystery. The series is known for its complex characters, intricate plots, and Davis’s Emmy-winning performance. How to Get Away with Murder stands out among lawyer shows on TV for its focus on the dark side of the legal profession and its exploration of moral ambiguity, making it a captivating and addictive watch for fans of suspenseful dramas.
L.A. Law (1986-1994)
Groundbreaking Ensemble Legal Drama
L.A. Law
L.A. Law was a seminal legal drama that set the standard for many lawyer shows on TV that followed. Created by Steven Bochco, the series offered a realistic and often provocative look inside a Los Angeles law firm, featuring a large ensemble cast and tackling contemporary social and legal issues. L.A. Law was praised for its writing, acting, and its willingness to address complex and controversial topics. Its numerous Emmy and Golden Globe awards underscore its critical and popular success, solidifying its place as a landmark series in the legal drama genre.
Suits (2011-2019)
High-Stakes Law and Hidden Secrets in a Corporate Firm
Suits TV Show Poster
A composite image of Stephen Amell looking on with Josh McDermitt looking toward the camera
Suits is a stylish and fast-paced legal drama set in a high-powered New York City law firm. The series centers on Mike Ross, played by Patrick J. Adams, a brilliant but unlicensed associate who uses his photographic memory to excel in the legal world. Suits is known for its sharp writing, charismatic characters, and focus on the inner workings of a corporate law firm. Its enduring popularity, even after its original run, and the development of spinoffs demonstrate its appeal and its status as a defining entry in lawyer shows on TV, particularly for its focus on character dynamics and workplace intrigue.
Goliath (2016-2021)
Redemption and Justice for the Underdog Lawyer
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Goliath, a Prime Video original series starring Billy Bob Thornton, presents a compelling story of a down-on-his-luck lawyer seeking redemption. Thornton portrays Billy McBride, a brilliant but flawed attorney who takes on a wrongful death lawsuit against a powerful corporate adversary. Goliath is praised for its gritty realism, its exploration of corruption within the legal system, and Thornton’s Golden Globe-winning performance. The series offers a darker and more cynical take on lawyer shows on TV, focusing on the challenges faced by those who fight for justice against overwhelming odds.
Conclusion
From the early days of Perry Mason to the contemporary complexities of Accused and Your Honor, lawyer shows on TV have consistently provided engaging and thought-provoking entertainment. These series not only offer thrilling courtroom drama and intricate legal cases, but also explore the ethical dilemmas, personal struggles, and human stories behind the law. Whether you prefer classic procedurals, comedic takes, or gritty serialized dramas, the world of lawyer shows on TV has something to offer every viewer seeking compelling stories and characters in the realm of law and justice.
