The 45+ Best Legal Drama TV Shows
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Vote up your favorite courtroom dramas that unfold their complex stories episode-by-episode.
- Julianna Margulies, Christine Baranski, Matt CzuchryA woman takes even more responsibility for her family after her husband goes to prison.More The Good Wife
- Dig Deeper...The Best Seasons Of 'The Good Wife,' Ranked
- #241 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #96 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- Gabriel Macht, Rick Hoffman, Sarah RaffertySet against the high-stakes world of Manhattan corporate law, Suits dives into the lives of two unconventional lawyers, the brilliant college dropout Mike Ross (Patrick J. Adams) and the tenacious Harvey Specter (Gabriel Macht). This legal drama intricately weaves together a balance of gripping cases with the personal struggles of both lead characters, garnering critical acclaim and multiple award nominations throughout its nine-season run. With its clever dialogue, strong ensemble cast, and engaging storylines, Suits has successfully carved out a niche for itself in the ever-competitive landscape of television dramas.More Suits
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- #136 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #12 of 120 onThe 100+ Best Dramedy TV Series, Ranked
- Hugh Dancy, Odelya Halevi, Sam WaterstonDetectives and prosecutors pursue justice in the New York City streets and courtrooms.More Law & Order
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- #83 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- Mariska Hargitay, Ice-T, Kelli GiddishCapt. Benson and her NYPD squad fight for justice in cases ripped straight from the headlines.
- Raymond Burr, Barbara Hale, William HopperA noir-inspired legal drama, Perry Mason brings a fresh perspective to the classic courtroom narrative. Set in 1930s Los Angeles, the show delves into the complex life of the eponymous defense attorney, played by Matthew Rhys, as he navigates the city's seedy underbelly and its most high-profile cases. The series boasts an ensemble cast featuring Emmy-nominated performances, including John Lithgow as E.B. Jonathan, a struggling lawyer and Mason's mentor. Through its intricate storytelling and richly textured visuals, Perry Mason not only pays homage to its source material but also elevates the genre with a contemporary edge that keeps viewers enthralled.More Perry Mason
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- #30 of 83 onThe 75+ Best CBS Shows
- #5 of 56 onThe Best CBS Dramas of All Time
- James Spader, John Larroquette, Christian ClemensonBoston Legal, a critically acclaimed legal dramedy, invites viewers into the fast-paced world of a prestigious law firm. With an ensemble cast led by the charismatic duo of Alan Shore (James Spader) and Denny Crane (William Shatner), the show effortlessly balances humor and drama while tackling thought-provoking courtroom cases. Throughout its five-season run, Boston Legal garnered numerous accolades, including multiple Emmy Awards for its principal actors. The series shines a spotlight on the complex relationships among its characters, as well as the ethical dilemmas faced by legal professionals - all wrapped in a package of wit, charm, and unforgettable moments.More Boston Legal
- Dig Deeper...The Best 'Boston Legal' Seasons, Ranked
- #151 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #21 of 120 onThe 100+ Best Dramedy TV Series, Ranked
- Michael Badalucco, Steve Harris, Camryn ManheimIn a world where legal dramas are plentiful, The Practice sets itself apart with its compelling narrative and well-rounded characters. This acclaimed series delves into the complex lives of attorneys at a Boston law firm, as they navigate high-stakes cases and moral dilemmas. Notable for its ensemble cast, the show features Bobby Donnell (Dylan McDermott) leading the firm with his unwavering dedication to justice. Throughout its eight-season run, The Practice garnered numerous accolades, including multiple Emmy Awards. With its gritty realism and thought-provoking storylines, this series continues to resonate with audiences, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of television drama.More The Practice
- #250 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #32 of 43 onThe Best '90s TV Dramas, Ranked
- #222 of 225 onThe Best TV Shows To Rewatch
- 8
The Good Fight
Christine Baranski, Audra McDonald, John SlatteryIn the ever-evolving world of legal dramas, The Good Fight has emerged as a refreshing take on the genre. With its razor-sharp wit and timely exploration of political and social issues, the show has garnered critical acclaim, including multiple Emmy nominations. Guided by the resilient and determined Diane Lockhart (played by the talented Christine Baranski), viewers are taken on a journey through the tumultuous landscape of Chicago's law scene. As the series unfolds, the ensemble cast, featuring characters such as Lucca Quinn (Cush Jumbo) and Maia Rindell (Rose Leslie), showcases an impressive range of talent, creating a thought-provoking and engaging viewing experience.More The Good Fight- #55 of 102 onThe Best Spin-Off Shows
- #87 of 168 onThe Best TV Shows You Can Watch On Paramount Plus
- #21 of 78 onThe Best Paramount Plus Shows Of All Time
- David James Elliott, Catherine Bell, Patrick LaborteauxIn a seamless fusion of military drama and legal intrigue, this long-running series delves deep into the high-stakes world of the United States Navy's Judge Advocate General's Corps. Through the eyes of determined characters such as Lt. Cmdr. Harmon Rabb (David James Elliott) and Lt. Col. Sarah MacKenzie (Catherine Bell), the show explores complex cases involving criminal investigations, ethical dilemmas, and international disputes. Spanning ten seasons,JAG is often lauded for its accurate portrayal of military life and thought-provoking storylines. With an ensemble cast delivering compelling performances, this TV gem remains a classic in the annals of television history.More JAG
- #173 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #47 of 54 onThe 50+ Best TV Shows With 10+ Seasons
- #18 of 56 onThe Best CBS Dramas of All Time
- Richard Dysart, Alan Rachins, Corbin BernsenIn the bustling world of a prestigious Los Angeles law firm, viewers are immersed in the intricate dynamics of legal battles and personal relationships. L.A. Law artfully balances drama with occasional comedic relief, as it delves into the lives of seasoned attorneys and ambitious newcomers. The ensemble cast, featuring characters such as Michael Kuzak (Harry Hamlin) and Arnie Becker (Corbin Bernsen), delivers powerful performances that have earned the show numerous accolades, including multiple Emmy Awards. As the series progresses, audiences are treated to thought-provoking storylines that explore contemporary social and ethical issues, making L.A. Law a compelling watch for any fan of courtroom dramas.More L.A. Law
- #173 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- #183 of 657 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #47 of 60 onThe Best 1980s Primetime TV Shows
- Andy Griffith, Julie Sommars, Linda PurlIn an intriguing mix of legal drama and mystery, the show follows the astute defense attorney Ben Matlock (Andy Griffith) as he uncovers hidden truths to exonerate his clients. With its engaging storylines and memorable performances, the series has garnered a devoted fan base and critical acclaim since its debut in 1986. The show's success can be attributed to Griffith's charming portrayal of the lawyer with a penchant for hotdogs and a keen sense of justice. Supporting characters such as private investigator Tyler Hudson (Kene Holliday) and attorney Michelle Thomas (Nancy Stafford) contribute to the dynamic narrative that keeps viewers engrossed throughout each episode.More Matlock
- #137 of 659 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #37 of 95 onThe Best ABC Shows of All Time
- #153 of 225 onThe Best TV Shows To Rewatch
- 12
Bull
Michael Weatherly, Geneva Carr, Yara MartinezTrial consulting firm founder Jason Bull uses psychology and high-tech data to help his clients win. - Glenn Close, Rose Byrne, Ryan PhillippeIn the realm of legal thrillers, one show stands out as a masterful exploration of moral ambiguity and twisted relationships. Damages, an award-winning series, keeps viewers on their toes with its intricate plotlines and complex characters. Centered around the high-stakes world of litigation, the storyline delves into the lives of ruthless lawyer Patty Hewes (Glenn Close) and her ambitious protégé Ellen Parsons (Rose Byrne). With each season introducing a new case, the series skillfully intertwines personal dramas with professional challenges, leaving audiences questioning the true motives of its enigmatic characters. Bolstered by exceptional performances and gripping narratives, Damages remains a standout in the television landscape.More Damages
- #280 of 657 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #390 of 447 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- #118 of 118 onCanceled Shows We'd Most Like to See as Movies
- Calista Flockhart, Greg Germann, Jane KrakowskiA young attorney joins a prestigious law firm whose staff includes her ex-boyfriend.More Ally McBeal
- #42 of 120 onThe 100+ Best Dramedy TV Series, Ranked
- #125 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- #306 of 476 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- Richard Belzer, Giancarlo Esposito, Peter GeretySet in the gritty streets of Baltimore, Homicide: Life on the Street presents a raw and realistic portrayal of detectives working tirelessly to solve murder cases. This critically acclaimed crime drama, which garnered numerous accolades including multiple Emmy Awards, showcases the complexities of human nature through its diverse ensemble cast. The series is anchored by Detective Frank Pembleton (Andre Braugher), whose relentless pursuit of justice often pushes him to the brink. Each episode delves into the intricate web of moral ambiguity, showcasing how the detectives navigate personal and professional challenges while remaining committed to uncovering the truth. Homicide: Life on the Street stands as a gripping exploration of the human condition within the tumultuous realm of law enforcement.
- #291 of 355 onTV Shows Canceled Before Their Time
- #199 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- #326 of 659 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- Amy Brenneman, Tyne Daly, Kevin RahmA juvenile court judge lives with her opinionated mother.More Judging Amy
- #217 of 355 onTV Shows Canceled Before Their Time
- #1 of 25 on25+ Movies And Shows With Amy In The Title
- #28 of 87 onThe Best Legal Drama TV Shows Ever
- Bob Odenkirk, Jonathan Banks, Michael MandoSix years before Saul Goodman meets Walter White, he is known as small-time lawyer Jimmy McGill.
- Breckin Meyer, Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Malcolm McDowellA pair of young lawyers joins a legendary button-down law firm.More Franklin & Bash
- #185 of 355 onTV Shows Canceled Before Their Time
- #31 of 87 onThe Best Legal Drama TV Shows Ever
- #9 of 27 onThe 25 Best Lawyer TV Shows
- Philip Winchester, Carl Weathers, Monica BarbaroProsecutors and investigators navigate high-stakes Chicago politics in pursuit of justice.
- Bradley Walsh, Harriet Walter, Freema AgyemanDetectives and prosecutors work to solve crimes and convict perpetrators.More Law & Order: UK
- #92 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #52 of 87 onThe Best Legal Drama TV Shows Ever
- #62 of 75 onThe 50+ Best Procedural TV Shows, Ranked
- Bebe Neuwirth, Amy Carlson, Fred Dalton ThompsonCases are shown through the perspectives defense attorneys and juries.
- #313 of 355 onTV Shows Canceled Before Their Time
- #96 of 102 onThe Best Spin-Off Shows
- #45 of 87 onThe Best Legal Drama TV Shows Ever
- Britt Robertson, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Ben RappaportNew lawyers handle the country's most high-profile and high-stakes federal cases.
- Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, Becki Newton, Jazz RaycoleThe Lincoln Lawyer, a legal drama that premiered in May 2022, delivers a captivating blend of crime and courtroom intrigue. Adapted from Michael Connelly's best-selling novels, the series follows Mickey Haller, an unconventional defense attorney who operates out of his Lincoln town car. While no awards have been bagged yet, the show's unique approach to law enforcement storytelling has garnered significant attention. The themes include morality within the justice system and personal redemption. The Lincoln Lawyer offers viewers a fresh take on legal dramas with its engrossing narratives and dynamic characters.More The Lincoln Lawyer
- #93 of 689 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #81 of 657 onThe 500+ Best Current Shows On Netflix
- #347 of 1,058 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- Simone Missick, Wilson Bethel, Marg HelgenbergerLos Angeles judges, prosecutors and public defenders work to get justice for the people.
- Viola Davis, Billy Brown, Jack FalaheeLaw professor Annalise Keating and her students get mixed up in a murder plot.
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- #219 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #166 of 659 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- Kathy Bates, Nathan Corddry, Christopher McDonaldThree down-on-their-luck people start a law firm in a rundown shoe store.More Harry's Law
- #289 of 355 onTV Shows Canceled Before Their Time
- #30 of 87 onThe Best Legal Drama TV Shows Ever
- #18 of 27 onThe 25 Best Lawyer TV Shows
- Nicholas Pinnock, Indira Varma, Joy BryantFor Life, a gripping legal drama series, draws inspiration from the real-life story of Isaac Wright Jr., a man wrongfully convicted who later becomes an attorney. The show follows the journey of Aaron Wallace (played by Nicholas Pinnock) as he navigates the challenges of imprisonment while striving to overturn his conviction and reunite with his family. With its powerful storytelling and compelling performances, For Life has garnered critical acclaim and secured a nomination for Outstanding Drama Series at the 52nd NAACP Image Awards. The series skillfully balances emotional depth with legal intrigue, providing viewers with thought-provoking content that keeps them invested in Aaron's pursuit of justice.More For Life
- #14 of 138 onThe Best Black TV Shows of the Last Few Years
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- #63 of 95 onThe Best ABC Shows of All Time
- James Woods, Jeri Ryan, Henry SimmonsA charismatic defense attorney goes to work for the district attorney's office.
- Dustin Hoffman, Robert Redford, Robert DuvallThe Defenders is an American courtroom drama series that ran on CBS from 1961-1965. It starred E. G. Marshall and Robert Reed as father-and-son defense attorneys who specialized in legally complex cases, with defendants such as neo-Nazis, conscientious objectors, civil rights demonstrators, a schoolteacher fired for being an atheist.More The Defenders
- Corey Stoll, Alfred Molina, Terrence HowardDetectives and prosecutors work to solve crimes and convict perpetrators in Los Angeles.More Law & Order: LA
- #49 of 87 onThe Best Legal Drama TV Shows Ever
- #55 of 75 onThe 50+ Best Procedural TV Shows, Ranked
- #21 of 101 onThe 95+ Best TV Shows Set In LA, Ranked
- Kim Delaney, Tom Everett Scott, Rick HoffmanA newly graduated law student builds her reputation in Philadelphia.
- Matthew Rhys, Juliet Rylance, Chris ChalkLegal drama based on novels and short stories penned by Erle Stanley Gardner.More Perry Mason
- 33
Goliath
Billy Bob Thornton, Nina Arianda, Tania RaymondeIn the world of legal drama, Goliath stands out with its compelling narrative and complex characters. The show revolves around a washed-up lawyer, Billy McBride (Billy Bob Thornton), who takes on powerful adversaries in an attempt to redeem himself. With its gritty atmosphere and thought-provoking storylines, the series has garnered critical acclaim, earning Thornton a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Television Series Drama. Goliath delves into the darker side of the legal system, exploring themes of corruption and redemption. Supported by a talented ensemble cast, the show masterfully balances intense courtroom battles with character-driven moments, providing viewers with an engaging experience that keeps them coming back for more.More Goliath- #50 of 145 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #391 of 447 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
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- Jewel Staite, Victor Garber, Brett KellyMembers of a dysfunctional family reluctantly work together at their father's law firm.More Family Law
- #195 of 687 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #79 of 120 onThe 100+ Best Dramedy TV Series, Ranked
- #654 of 657 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- Gina Torres, Morgan Spector, Bethany Joy LenzA disbarred lawyer tries to atone for her past in the infamous world of Chicago politics.
- Hayley Atwell, Eddie Cahill, Shawn AshmoreLawyer Hayes Morrison takes a job with the Conviction Integrity Unit to avoid jail time.More Conviction
- #125 of 308 onThe Best Shows Canceled After a Single Season
- #33 of 87 onThe Best Legal Drama TV Shows Ever
- #23 of 27 onThe 25 Best Lawyer TV Shows
- Anthony LaPaglia, Michael Hayden, J.C. MacKenzieMajor case trials are followed from beginning to end.
- Jonny Lee Miller, Victor Garber, Natasha HenstridgeA man believes he is a prophet.More Eli Stone
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- Lee Ji-ah, Kang Ki-young, Oh Min-seokKorea’s most skilled divorce solver and an eccentric lawyer who provides solutions for troubled marriages, punishing unfaithful spouses in the process.More Queen of Divorce
- #314 of 329 onThe Best KDramas Of All Time
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- #114 of 267 onThe 195+ Best TV Shows With Female Leads
- Carrie Preston, Wendell Pierce, Carra PattersonElsbeth Tascioni utilizes her point of view to corner brilliant criminals alongside the NYPD.More Elsbeth
- #159 of 689 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #2 of 54 onThe Best New CBS TV Shows of the Last Few Years
- #69 of 203 onThe 150+ Most Popular Shows Right Now
- Jimmy Smits, Caitlin McGee, Barry SloaneBluff City Law is a legal drama that centers on a father-daughter duo at a celebrated Memphis law firm known for taking on landmark civil rights cases. At the heart of the show is the dynamic between the brilliant but fiery attorney Sydney Strait (Caitlin McGee) and her charming, yet enigmatic, father Elijah (Jimmy Smits). After her mother's death, Sydney is drawn back into the fold of her family's practice, where corporate law meets emotional courtroom battles and family drama. The show tackles themes of justice, family reconciliation, and social change, as Sydney and Elijah face high-stakes cases that challenge moral and legal boundaries.More Bluff City Law
- #184 of 308 onThe Best Shows Canceled After a Single Season
- #74 of 202 onThe Best New Shows That Premiered in 2019
- #51 of 63 onThe Best NBC Dramas of All Time
- Nicola Walker, Stephen Mangan, Fiona ButtonThe Split (Sundance TV, 2018) is a British television legal drama series created by Abi Morgan. The Defoes - a family of female divorce lawyers are forced to face their past following the return of their estranged father after a 30 year absence.
- Sarah Shahi, Baron Vaughn, Virginia WilliamsA young woman gives up her lucrative law practice to become a mediator.More Fairly Legal
- #15 of 59 onThe Best USA Network Original Series
- #9 of 52 onThe 50+ Worst TV Theme Songs
- #38 of 87 onThe Best Legal Drama TV Shows Ever
- Edmond O'Brien, Richard Rust, Joan TompkinsSam Benedict is an American legal drama that aired on NBC from September 1962 to March 1963. The series was created and executive produced by E. Jack Neumann. Sam Benedict is based on real-life lawyer Jacob W. "Jake" Ehrlich, who served as technical consultant for the series.
- Maahra Hill, Susan Heyward, Jill Marie JonesDelilah seeks justice for those who need it most, and some will do anything to stop her.More Delilah
- #623 of 687 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #94 of 138 onThe Best Black TV Shows of the Last Few Years
- #278 of 308 onThe Best Shows Canceled After a Single Season
- Courtney B. Vance, Tosin Cole, Bentley GreenMoses Johnson, a promising high school athlete, gets swept up in a corrupt criminal justice system.More 61st Street
- #455 of 684 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #47 of 138 onThe Best Black TV Shows of the Last Few Years
- #136 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- Tracy Ifeachor, Celine Buckens, James FrainA privileged student is put on trial.More Showtrial
- #479 of 657 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #66 of 71 onThe Best Serial Dramas of the 21st Century
- #118 of 137 onThe Very Best British Crime Dramas
- Paula Patton, Juan Antonio, Erica AshEntertainment lawyer Daniella Hernandez navigates the nefarious lives of her famous clients.More Sacrifice
- #727 of 1,056 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #41 of 51 onThe Best Black Shows Of 2024, Ranked
- #38 of 84 onThe Best Current Black TV Shows
- Maryam Basir, Skyh Alvester Black, Taylor BynoeLacey is a prolific lawyer who can make anyone's problems disappear except her own.More Lace
- #730 of 1,056 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #55 of 76 onThe 70 Best Current Shows About Women
- #47 of 47 onThe All-Time Best Primetime Soap Operas
- Billy Zane, Clancy Brown, Nicole Ari ParkerThe Deep End is an American television series created by David Hemingson and produced by 20th Century Fox Television for the ABC television network. Starring Mehcad Brooks, Matt Long, Tina Majorino, Clancy Brown, and Billy Zane, the show follows five first-year associate attorneys from diverse backgrounds as they learn how to cope with the challenges of working at one of the most prestigious law firms in Los Angeles. Hemingson based the series on his work experience as an attorney. To cut production costs, the show was filmed in Las Colinas, a real estate development in Irving, Texas; ABC scheduled a six-episode run, and the series premiered as a midseason replacement on January 21, 2010. The show was described as a cross between L.A. Law and Grey's Anatomy, but it was criticized for its lack of originality and for reusing ideas from similar shows. Critics said the show was so poor it was a failure after its first episode. The series was canceled in May 2010.
- Mor Dimri, Golan Azulai, Roy NikOn the day that the appeals verdict is due in a murder cases, an identical killing occurs.More The Truth
- #76 of 77 onThe 70 Best Acorn TV Shows, Ranked
- #52 of 100 onThe Best Crime Dramas Of 2024, Ranked
- #49 of 87 onThe Best Legal Drama TV Shows Ever
- Amy Nuttall, Toby Jones, Shaun DooleyThe extraordinary story of the greatest miscarriage of justice in British legal history.
- #446 of 657 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #80 of 137 onThe Very Best British Crime Dramas
- #41 of 55 onThe 45+ Best PBS Shows Of All Time, Ranked
- Ravi Kishan, Nidhi Bisht, Anjum BatraQuirky courthouse employees work to uphold justice, but not without a few objections.More Maamla Legal Hai
- #177 of 316 onThe 300+ Best Netflix Foreign Series, Ranked
- #50 of 87 onThe Best Legal Drama TV Shows Ever
- #78 of 213 onThe 175+ Best Comedy Drama Shows
- Aisha Dee, Virginia Gay, Mabel LiPhoebe Rook leaves her job at a prominent law firm to work at a family violence legal center.More Safe Home
- #419 of 687 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #651 of 657 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #260 of 307 onThe 230+ Best New TV Drama Series