The 60+ Best Court & Law Drama Movies

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Updated May 1, 2024 231.6K views 65 items
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Vote up your favorite Courtroom drama films, regardless of how popular or successful they were at the box office.
Latest additions: Anatomy of a Fall, Mea Culpa, The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial
Most divisive: A Soldier's Story
Over 2.3K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 60+ Best Court & Law Drama Movies

Courtroom dramas are a staple of the cinematic world, renowned for their ability to captivate audiences with riveting storytelling, high-stakes legal battles, and engrossing performances. We've expertly compiled a list of the very best courtroom dramas and movies about court cases that are sure to rouse your interest and have you on the edge of your seat.

These films span across various eras and feature enthralling narratives, critical acclaim, and noteworthy casting. From all-time classics like 12 Angry Men to crowd-pleasers like My Cousin Vinny and powerful, thought-provoking masterpieces like A Few Good Men, this collection of the best courtroom movies covers the spectrum of this beloved genre. So, whether you're a fan of classic black-and-white legal dramas or more contemporary fare, you're certain to find something that catches your fancy.

Included in this list are not just critically acclaimed films but also audience favorites and classics that have adeptly demonstrated the profound influence of the criminal justice system on society. Crafted by some of the most skilled directors in the industry, these stories strike a chord with us for their compelling narratives and the significant questions they provoke about justice, morality, and truth.

Whether you're a fan of intense courtroom trials or prefer the intricate dance of a high-stakes legal negotiation, these best legal drama movies are a must-watch. And to make your viewing experience even more convenient, you will find handy streaming buttons for platforms like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, Paramount+, and Amazon Prime under each film. Simply pick your preferred platform, and you're ready to dive into some exhilarating drama.

As the essence of any good list lies in its dynamic appeal, we've made it interactive for you. If you’ve seen any of these courtroom dramas and have a clear favorite, be sure to scroll to the base of this article. Your opinion matters to us! Show your support by voting up your favorite movies. Immerse yourself in this compelling world of courtroom films and let the drama unfold.

  • A Few Good Men
    1
    Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson, Demi Moore
    835 votes

    A gripping military courtroom drama with an all-star cast, it centers around the trial of two Marines accused of murdering a fellow soldier, with a rookie Navy lawyer assigned to their defense. As the case unfolds, the young lawyer finds himself at odds with his superiors as he uncovers a high-level conspiracy involving a top-ranking officer desperate to protect his career and reputation. Anchored by powerful performances, this tense, thought-provoking drama raises questions about the nature of duty, loyalty, and the moral consequences of following orders.

  • My Cousin Vinny
    2
    Joe Pesci, Marisa Tomei, Ralph Macchio
    482 votes

    This comedic courtroom drama follows the story of two college students from New York who are accused of murder in rural Alabama, leading their loud-mouthed, inexperienced attorney cousin to come to their rescue. Through a combination of street smarts and cunning tactics, Vinny embarks on a quest to expose the truth and free his clients, despite the obstacles posed by the quirky locals and his own wildly unorthodox approach. A delightful blend of humor and legal maneuvering, this film is both entertaining and insightful.

  • 12 Angry Men
    3
    Henry Fonda, Lee J. Cobb, Ed Begley
    827 votes

    In a sweltering New York City jury room, 12 jurors deliberate the guilt of a young man accused of killing his father, initially convinced of his guilt except for one holdout. As prejudices and preconceptions are challenged, the lone dissenter forces the other jurors to examine their own biases and reconsider the evidence. This high-stakes life-and-death drama is a gripping examination of the justice system that remains timeless and relevant.

  • To Kill a Mockingbird
    4
    Gregory Peck, Mary Badham, Phillip Alford
    638 votes

    Adapted from Harper Lee's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, this Southern Gothic tale follows the courageous attorney Atticus Finch as he defends a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman in Depression-era Alabama. Through the eyes of Finch's young daughter Scout, the film exposes the racial prejudice and injustice that pervades the small town, while also portraying the power of empathy and understanding. This beautifully acted and deeply moving film is both a poignant exploration of race and a timeless classic.

  • The Verdict
    5
    Paul Newman, Charlotte Rampling, James Mason
    428 votes

    An alcoholic washed-up attorney, played by Paul Newman, is given a seemingly unwinnable medical malpractice case, which becomes an opportunity for redemption and a chance to reclaim his dignity. As he uncovers layers of corruption within the legal system and the church, he transforms from a broken man seeking a financial windfall to a relentless crusader determined to bring about justice. With a riveting performance by Newman, this compelling drama showcases the resilience of the human spirit and exposes the dark underbelly of legal and religious institutions.

  • A Time to Kill
    6
    Sandra Bullock, Samuel L. Jackson, Matthew McConaughey
    534 votes

    Set in the racially charged atmosphere of 1980s Mississippi, this intense legal thriller follows the trial of a black father who kills the two white men who brutally assaulted his young daughter, with a young white attorney defending him against a capital murder charge. As racial tensions escalate and the KKK threatens violence, the defense attorney struggles to balance the political and moral complexities at play, while seeking justice for his client. Based on John Grisham's best-selling novel, this powerful film challenges viewers to confront their own biases and examine the inequities of the American legal system.

  • Primal Fear
    7
    Richard Gere, Laura Linney, Ed Norton
    448 votes

    A high-profile criminal defense attorney, played by Richard Gere, takes on the sensational case of a young altar boy accused of brutally murdering a beloved archbishop, believing the case will burnish his reputation. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a chilling secret that turns the trial on its head and tests his own morality. This intense psychological thriller offers a stunning twist and showcases a breakout performance by Edward Norton.

  • 12 Angry Men
    8
    Jack Lemmon, George C. Scott, Douglas Spain
    233 votes

    In this modernized remake of the 1957 classic, a diverse group of jurors vehemently debate the guilt or innocence of a young man accused of killing his father. As tensions rise and tempers flare, biases and prejudices surface, forcing each juror to examine their own beliefs and consider the weight of their decision. The updated version adds fresh perspectives and maintains the original film's powerful exploration of the complex nature of justice.

  • Anatomy of a Murder
    9
    James Stewart, Lee Remick, Ben Gazzara
    304 votes

    In a small Michigan town, a hard-drinking attorney defends a hot-headed Army lieutenant accused of murdering the man who allegedly raped his wife. The case becomes a twisted entanglement of legal maneuvering and explosive secrets, as the lawyer navigates the murky waters of truth and deception. This gripping courtroom drama, featuring a legendary score by Duke Ellington, remains a landmark in the genre for its daring exploration of dark themes and moral ambiguities.

  • The Rainmaker
    10
    Matt Damon, Claire Danes, Mickey Rourke
    284 votes

    An idealistic young attorney, played by Matt Damon, takes on a Goliath-like insurance company that has denied a dying boy's claim for a potentially life-saving treatment. As the attorney battles overwhelming odds and the corrupt legal system, he discovers his own passion for justice and finds an unexpected ally in an experienced paralegal. This David-and-Goliath story, based on John Grisham's novel, is a stirring reminder of the importance of fighting for what is right.

  • Witness for the Prosecution
    11
    Tyrone Power, Marlene Dietrich, Charles Laughton
    340 votes

    Adapted from an Agatha Christie play, this suspenseful whodunit follows an aging British barrister who takes on a high-profile murder case involving a mysterious woman and her enigmatic lover. As the twists and turns of the trial unfold, the audience is constantly kept guessing about the characters' true motives and allegiances. With its riveting plot and exceptional performances, this film is a must-see for fans of classic courtroom mysteries.

  • The Client
    12
    Susan Sarandon, Tommy Lee Jones, Mary-Louise Parker
    237 votes

    Based on another John Grisham bestseller, this legal thriller follows an 11-year-old boy who unwittingly becomes the key witness in a high-stakes mafia trial after witnessing a lawyer's suicide that reveals a powerful secret. With both the mob and a tenacious federal attorney hot on his trail, the boy enlists the help of a feisty female attorney to keep him safe and ensure that justice is served. This suspenseful and engaging film emphasizes the importance of trust and loyalty in the face of danger.

  • Judgment at Nuremberg
    13
    Spencer Tracy, Burt Lancaster, Richard Widmark
    253 votes

    In this compelling post-WWII drama, an American judge is tasked with presiding over the trial of four German judges accused of war crimes and collaborating with the Nazis. As the proceedings reveal the horrific extent of the defendants' complicity, the judge must confront the chilling question of where personal responsibility ends and blind obedience begins. Featuring an unforgettable ensemble cast, this thought-provoking film is a powerful study of morality and justice in the shadow of unspeakable atrocities.

  • Erin Brockovich
    14
    Julia Roberts, Albert Finney, Aaron Eckhart
    425 votes

    Based on a true story, this inspiring film follows the determined crusade of an unconventional single mother who, as a legal assistant, uncovers a massive environmental cover-up involving a powerful corporation. Her relentless pursuit of justice, armed with only her dogged determination and sharp wit, leads to a groundbreaking lawsuit that ultimately benefits hundreds of innocent victims. Julia Roberts delivers an unforgettable performance in this gripping portrayal of an unlikely hero who triumphs against all odds.

  • The Lincoln Lawyer
    15
    Matthew McConaughey, Marisa Tomei, Ryan Phillippe
    318 votes

    A slick Los Angeles defense attorney, played by Matthew McConaughey, operates from the back seat of his classic Lincoln Continental while taking on a high-profile case defending a wealthy playboy accused of assault. As he digs deeper into the case, he comes to question his own ethics and the nature of his work, putting his life on the line as he seeks to expose the truth. This stylish, fast-paced thriller offers a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of the criminal defense system and the moral complexities that come with it.

  • Philadelphia
    16
    Tom Hanks, Denzel Washington, Jason Robards
    456 votes

    A young, ambitious attorney is fired from his prestigious law firm when it's discovered he has AIDS, leading him to seek justice by suing his former employer for wrongful termination. As he battles not only the powerful law firm but also societal prejudice against those with his illness, he forms an unlikely alliance with a homophobic personal injury lawyer. This groundbreaking film, featuring powerful performances by Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington, puts a human face on the AIDS crisis and champions the fight against discrimination.

  • Presumed Innocent
    17
    Harrison Ford, Brian Dennehy, Raul Julia
    254 votes

    In this gripping thriller based on Scott Turow's best-selling novel, a prosecutor finds himself accused of murdering a colleague with whom he had an affair, forcing him to navigate the treacherous legal system to prove his innocence. As he uncovers the intricate web of lies and deception surrounding the case, he must confront dark truths about himself and those around him. Filled with tense courtroom scenes and unexpected twists, this film keeps viewers guessing until the very end.

  • Witness
    18
    Harrison Ford, Kelly McGillis, Alexander Godunov
    193 votes

    A young Amish boy witnesses a brutal murder in a Philadelphia train station, forcing a hardened city detective, played by Harrison Ford, to enter the insular world of the Amish community to protect the boy and solve the crime. As the detective becomes entangled in the lives of the Amish, he learns valuable lessons in humility and tolerance while grappling with his own prejudices. This unique blend of crime drama and cultural exploration offers a different perspective on the traditional courtroom film.

  • The Firm
    19
    Tom Cruise, Jeanne Tripplehorn, Gene Hackman
    377 votes

    A young, ambitious attorney is seduced by the luxurious lifestyle offered by a prestigious Memphis law firm, only to discover that his new employers are deeply involved in criminal activities. As he desperately tries to escape the firm's clutches while staying one step ahead of the FBI, the line between right and wrong becomes increasingly blurred. Based on John Grisham's best-selling novel, this suspenseful film offers a thrilling look at the darker side of corporate law and the price of ambition.

  • The Accused
    20
    Kelly McGillis, Jodie Foster, Bernie Coulson
    285 votes

    Inspired by a real-life case, this powerful drama follows a young woman who fights for justice after being gang-raped in a bar, with the help of a relentless prosecutor determined to bring her attackers to trial. As the case proceeds, the film raises provocative questions about victim-blaming, consent, and societal attitudes towards sexual assault survivors. With its unflinching depiction of a harrowing crime and its aftermath, this film is a searing exploration of the complexities of sexual assault and the legal system's handling of such cases.

  • Runaway Jury
    21
    John Cusack, Gene Hackman, Dustin Hoffman
    320 votes

    Based on John Grisham's best-selling novel, this legal thriller focuses on a high-stakes trial involving a widow suing a powerful gun manufacturer for her husband's wrongful death. As the case unfolds, a mysterious juror and his enigmatic partner manipulate events both inside and outside the courtroom, with the ultimate goal of influencing the verdict for their own hidden agenda. This compelling tale exposes the shadowy world of jury tampering and the lengths that some will go to sway the scales of justice.

  • The Pelican Brief
    22
    Julia Roberts, Denzel Washington, Sam Shepard
    214 votes

    A tenacious law student unwittingly uncovers a chilling conspiracy involving the assassinations of two Supreme Court Justices, leading her into a deadly web of intrigue as she becomes the target of ruthless killers. With the help of a seasoned investigative reporter, she navigates the treacherous world of politics and power as they race against time to expose the truth. Based on John Grisham's best-selling novel, this thrilling film delves deep into the murky waters of political corruption and the sacrifices individuals must make in the name of justice.

  • Sleepers
    23
    Kevin Bacon, Robert De Niro, Dustin Hoffman
    224 votes

    Four childhood friends are forced to confront their shared dark past when they become involved in a murder trial connected to the brutal abuse they suffered at a boys' detention center. As the courtroom drama unfolds, the friends must navigate the complex relationship between guilt, loyalty, and personal responsibility, battling a corrupt justice system to seek retribution for the wrongs done to them. This haunting and emotionally charged film offers a poignant examination of the long-lasting effects of trauma and the resilience of the human spirit.

  • Inherit the Wind
    24
    Spencer Tracy, Fredric March, Gene Kelly
    218 votes

    Loosely based on the infamous Scopes Monkey Trial of 1925, this fictionalized account explores the clash between religious fundamentalism and academic freedom during a court battle over a teacher's right to teach evolution in public schools. The high-stakes trial becomes a national sensation, pitting two renowned attorneys against each other in a spirited debate about the nature of truth and the limits of personal belief. With its eloquent dialogue and powerful performances, this film remains an important exploration of the constant struggle between science and faith.

  • ...And Justice for All
    25
    Al Pacino, Jack Warden, John Forsythe
    250 votes

    An idealistic defense attorney finds himself questioning his values and the integrity of the legal system when he is assigned to defend a judge accused of rape – a judge he has long despised for his corruption and cruelty. As he struggles to maintain his beliefs in the face of mounting pressure and personal crises, the film explores the age-old question of whether the ends justify the means. Featuring a powerful performance by Al Pacino, this riveting drama shines a harsh light on the compromises that must be made to uphold justice.

  • Fracture
    26
    Anthony Hopkins, Ryan Gosling, David Strathairn
    182 votes

    A cunning and wealthy aeronautical engineer is charged with the attempted murder of his wife and chooses to represent himself in court, facing off against a young, ambitious prosecutor with his sights set on a high-profile future. As the case progresses, the engineer engages in a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse, luring the prosecutor into a web of deceit and clever legal maneuvering. In this gripping psychological thriller, the line between guilt and innocence becomes increasingly blurred, leaving audiences guessing until the final moments.

  • The Devil's Advocate
    27
    Keanu Reeves, Al Pacino, Charlize Theron
    269 votes

    An ethical crisis arises when a talented young attorney, played by Keanu Reeves, accepts a job offer from a high-powered New York law firm, only to discover that his mysterious new boss, played to chilling perfection by Al Pacino, may be the devil incarnate. As he witnesses the horrifying truth behind the firm's success, he must grapple with his own moral compass and decide how far he's willing to go for power and material wealth. This supernatural legal thriller offers a chilling examination of ambition, temptation, and the nature of evil.

  • Kramer vs. Kramer
    28
    Dustin Hoffman, Meryl Streep, Justin Henry
    218 votes

    When a woman unexpectedly leaves her husband, he's left to care for their young son alone and must navigate the challenges of single parenthood while also fighting a heated custody battle. As both parents struggle to adapt to their new roles and responsibilities, the film raises important questions about gender roles, parenthood, and the nature of love and family. This deeply emotional film features powerhouse performances by Dustin Hoffman and Meryl Streep and remains an enduring exploration of the complexities of divorce and its impact on those involved.

  • The Caine Mutiny
    29
    Humphrey Bogart, José Ferrer, Van Johnson
    107 votes

    Set during World War II, this gripping Naval courtroom drama depicts a group of officers who mutiny against their paranoid and mentally unstable captain, believing him unfit for command. As their court-martial unfolds, the officers must confront the consequences of their actions and grapple with the complex nature of duty, loyalty, and the chain of command. With its richly drawn characters and tense moral dilemmas, this compelling film remains a classic in the annals of military drama.

  • Ghosts of Mississippi
    30
    Alec Baldwin, Whoopi Goldberg, James Woods
    168 votes

    Based on the true story of the 1994 trial of white supremacist Byron De La Beckwith for the 1963 assassination of civil rights activist Medgar Evers, this impassioned drama depicts the tireless efforts of a young assistant district attorney to finally bring justice to Evers' family and the black community. As he courageously battles against racism, political pressure, and accusations of grandstanding, the film raises provocative questions about the long-lingering effects of racial hatred and the responsibility of society to confront its past. This emotional and inspiring film is a powerful testament to the perseverance of those who fight for justice, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

  • In Cold Blood
    31
    Robert Blake, Scott Wilson, John Forsythe
    179 votes

    Adapted from Truman Capote's groundbreaking true-crime novel, this chilling film dramatizes the grisly murder of a Kansas family by two drifters and the subsequent trial that ensues. As the killers are pursued, captured, and brought to justice, the film delves into the minds of these seemingly ordinary men who committed such an unspeakable act. This seminal work of cinema offers an unflinching look at the dark underbelly of human nature and the blurred line between good and evil.

  • Michael Clayton
    32
    George Clooney, Tom Wilkinson, Tilda Swinton
    183 votes

    A morally conflicted "fixer" for a powerful New York law firm, played by George Clooney, finds himself caught in a web of corporate corruption and personal crisis when he's called in to clean up a high-stakes case involving a massive agrochemical company. As he delves deeper into the case, he becomes embroiled in a deadly conspiracy that forces him to confront his own complicity and fight for justice. This taut, suspenseful legal thriller offers an engrossing examination of the lengths to which powerful interests will go to protect their own interests, even at the expense of human lives.

  • Miracle on 34th Street
    33
    Maureen O'Hara, John Payne, Edmund Gwenn
    122 votes

    In this beloved holiday classic, an eccentric man claiming to be Santa Claus is put on trial to prove his sanity and the existence of Christmas magic after he inadvertently causes a stir at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. As the courtroom drama unfolds, it offers a heartwarming exploration of the nature of faith, hope, and the power of imagination. This enchanting film has become an enduring symbol of the holiday spirit and the enduring belief in the goodness and magic of the human heart.

  • Murder in the First
    34

    Murder in the First

    Christian Slater, Kevin Bacon, Gary Oldman
    171 votes

    Inspired by true events, this gripping drama follows an inexperienced attorney who takes on the case of a young prisoner accused of killing a fellow inmate and subjected to brutal treatment at the notorious Alcatraz prison. As he delves into the horrifying conditions and systemic abuses that led to his client's downfall, the attorney becomes a crusader for justice and a voice for the voiceless. This powerful film offers a searing depiction of the inhumanity rampant within the penal system and the fight to expose its darkest secrets.

  • A Civil Action
    35
    John Travolta, Robert Duvall, Tony Shalhoub
    173 votes

    Based on the true story of a zealous personal injury lawyer who takes on a seemingly insurmountable case involving a major corporation accused of contaminating the water supply of a small Massachusetts town, leading to a string of deaths and health problems. As he battles against overwhelming odds and a powerful adversary, the attorney is forced to reevaluate the value of justice and the personal costs of pursuing it. This compelling legal drama highlights the importance of holding corporations accountable for their actions and the power of one individual to make a difference in the face of injustice.

  • The Trial of the Chicago 7
    36
    Eddie Redmayne, Alex Sharp, Sacha Baron Cohen
    60 votes

    Based on the true story of the infamous trial of seven anti-Vietnam War protestors accused of inciting a riot during the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, this gripping courtroom drama deftly balances politics, humor, and high-stakes legal battles. With an all-star ensemble cast and sharp, timely dialogue, the film exposes the often-manipulative tactics used by the government to quash dissent and explores the courage it takes to stand up for one's beliefs in the face of extreme adversity. In a time of increasing political polarization, this compelling film remains as relevant today as it was during the tumultuous era in which it is set.

  • Absence of Malice
    37
    Paul Newman, Sally Field, Bob Balaban
    154 votes

    An innocent man finds his life turned upside down when he's wrongly implicated in the murder of a labor union leader by an ambitious newspaper reporter seeking a story. As the man fights to clear his name and expose the truth behind the reporter's actions, the film raises important ethical questions about the role of the media, the abuse of power, and the lengths to which some will go for ambition. With its timely exploration of these themes, this compelling film still resonates with audiences today.

  • Amistad
    38
    Morgan Freeman, Anthony Hopkins, Matthew McConaughey
    160 votes

    This historical drama recounts the true story of a group of African slaves who mutiny aboard the Spanish slave ship La Amistad and embark on a desperate struggle for freedom. As their fate is decided in a contentious court battle in the United States, the film exposes the hypocrisy and moral contradictions at the heart of the American justice system in a country still grappling with the legacy of slavery. Directed by Steven Spielberg, Amistad offers a stirring portrayal of courage, resilience, and the unquenchable human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.

  • The Hurricane
    39
    Denzel Washington, Vicellous Reon Shannon, Deborah Kara Unger
    166 votes

    Based on the real-life story of Rubin "Hurricane" Carter, a former middleweight boxing champion who was wrongfully convicted of triple murder, this gripping drama follows the efforts of a group of activists and a young man who become convinced of his innocence and fight tirelessly to set him free. As the legal battle unfolds, the film delves into themes of race, injustice, and the power of redemption. With its emotionally charged performances and a hauntingly evocative score by Bob Dylan, The Hurricane is a powerful testament to the human capacity for change and the enduring pursuit of justice.

  • Marshall
    40

    Marshall

    Chadwick Boseman, Josh Gad, Kate Hudson
    30 votes

    A gripping biographical drama about Thurgood Marshall, the first African American Supreme Court Justice, who as a young civil rights attorney, fought tirelessly to defend a black man falsely accused of rape and attempted murder. The film delves into Marshall's personal struggles, his unwavering commitment to racial justice, and the risks he took to challenge institutional racism within the legal system. With its powerful performances and sobering portrayal of America's past, this film serves as a profound tribute to a trailblazing legal icon.

  • A Soldier's Story
    41
    Howard E. Rollins, Adolph Caesar, Denzel Washington
    116 votes

    Set during World War II, this riveting drama follows the investigation into the murder of a tyrannical African American sergeant stationed at a segregated U.S. Army base in the Deep South. As the black military attorney assigned to the case uncovers the simmering racial tensions and resentments that led to the murder, the film offers a complex and powerful examination of race, power, and the lasting impact of prejudice. Adapted from Charles Fuller's Pulitzer Prize-winning play, A Soldier's Story is a searing exploration of the human condition and the lengths one will go to for justice.

  • Regarding Henry
    42
    Harrison Ford, Annette Bening, Bill Nunn
    76 votes

    An arrogant, high-powered attorney suffers a life-altering accident that leaves him with amnesia, forcing him to reevaluate his values and rediscover the person he once was. As he slowly pieces together his past and the questionable choices that led him to where he is, the attorney begins to reconnect with his estranged family and find a renewed sense of purpose. With its poignant and heartwarming exploration of personal redemption, this thought-provoking film serves as a reminder that it's never too late to change one's life for the better.

  • Brokedown Palace
    43
    Claire Danes, Kate Beckinsale, Bill Pullman
    110 votes

    In this harrowing legal drama, two American friends traveling abroad in Thailand are arrested and convicted of drug trafficking, leading to a desperate fight for their freedom. As they navigate the complexities of a foreign justice system and the duplicity of those they once trusted, the young women must confront their own innocence and the stark reality of their situation. This intense, emotional film raises questions about loyalty, trust, and the moral implications of a justice system that often fails those caught within its grasp.

  • On the Basis of Sex
    44
    Felicity Jones, Armie Hammer, Justin Theroux
    26 votes

    This inspiring biopic follows the early career of pioneering Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, as she fights for equal rights and challenges the institutional sexism and discrimination that she faces within the male-dominated legal profession. Focusing on a groundbreaking gender-discrimination case that served as a turning point in her career, the film offers a stirring and insightful look at the long-fought battle for gender equality in the United States. With its powerful performances and unwavering message of hope and perseverance, On the Basis of Sex is an empowering tribute to one of the most iconic figures in American legal history.

  • Disclosure
    45

    Disclosure

    Michael Douglas, Demi Moore, Donald Sutherland
    90 votes

    When a successful executive is accused of sexual harassment by his ambitious female colleague, he must confront the harsh realities of corporate politics and gender dynamics to clear his name and salvage his career. As the high-stakes legal battle unfolds, the film raises provocative questions about power, ambition, and the ways in which men and women navigate the treacherous waters of workplace relationships. This suspenseful and thought-provoking film serves as a timely exploration of the darker side of corporate America.

  • Reversal of Fortune
    46
    Glenn Close, Jeremy Irons, Ron Silver
    95 votes

    In this captivating legal drama based on a true story, an enigmatic European aristocrat is accused of attempting to murder his wealthy American wife, leading to a high-profile trial that captivates the world's attention. As a renowned Harvard law professor takes on the case, he becomes entangled in the twisted web of deceit, greed, and intrigue that surrounds the couple. With its intricate plotting and exceptional performances, this riveting film exposes the dark underbelly of wealth, privilege, and the lengths people will go to protect it.

  • Class Action
    47
    Gene Hackman, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Colin Friels
    93 votes

    A bitter father-daughter rivalry erupts when two powerhouse attorneys face off against each other in a high-stakes class-action lawsuit involving a dangerous automobile defect. As the trial forces the pair to confront their strained relationship and the true meaning of justice, the case exposes the ethical dilemmas and moral complexities that come with balancing ambition and responsibility. This engaging and emotionally charged drama offers a compelling look at the personal and professional cost of pursuing justice.

  • Dark Waters
    48
    Mark Ruffalo, Anne Hathaway, Tim Robbins
    27 votes

    Based on the true story of environmental attorney Rob Bilott's battle against the powerful chemical corporation DuPont, this gripping legal thriller follows the attorney's tireless quest to hold the company accountable for the devastating pollution of a West Virginia town. As he uncovers the depths of DuPont's deception and disregard for human lives, the attorney risks his career, family, and life to bring the truth to light. Featuring a powerhouse performance by Mark Ruffalo, this chilling and timely film highlights the courageous fight against corporate greed and environmental injustice.

  • The Burial
    49
    Tommy Lee Jones, Jamie Foxx, Jurnee Smollett-Bell
    4 votes
  • Beyond a Reasonable Doubt
    50
    Jesse Metcalfe, Amber Tamblyn, Michael Douglas
    70 votes

    In this classic courtroom drama, a newspaper reporter sets out to prove the potential flaws in the legal system by framing himself for murder, only to find himself trapped within the very system he sought to expose. As the trial unfolds and the reporter's guilt becomes increasingly more uncertain, the film raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of truth, the limitations of justice, and the delicate balance between guilt and innocence. With its gripping plot and compelling performances, this film remains an enduring exploration of the complexities of the criminal justice system.

  • Breaker Morant
    51
    Edward Woodward, Jack Thompson, Bryan Brown
    65 votes

    Based on a true story set during the Boer War, this gripping courtroom drama follows the trial of three Australian soldiers accused of war crimes, as they face the repercussions of following morally questionable orders. As the men's defense attorney builds a controversial case arguing that they were simply obeying commands from their superiors, the trial exposes the harsh realities of war and the deeply ingrained prejudices of the British Empire. With its powerful performances and unflinching interrogation of the nature of warfare and responsibility, Breaker Morant is a searing exploration of the human capacity for cruelty and the lengths one will go to in the pursuit of justice.

  • The Juror
    52
    Demi Moore, Alec Baldwin, Joseph Gordon-Levitt
    68 votes
  • Legal Eagles
    53
    Robert Redford, Debra Winger, Daryl Hannah
    88 votes
  • American Traitor: The Trial of Axis Sally
    54
    Meadow Williams, Al Pacino, Thomas Kretschmann
    99 votes
  • Guilty by Suspicion
    55
    Robert De Niro, Annette Bening, George Wendt
    76 votes
  • The Chamber
    56
    Chris O'Donnell, Gene Hackman, Faye Dunaway
    63 votes
  • The Burning Bed
    57
    Farrah Fawcett, Richard Masur, Jon Avnet
    59 votes
  • Criminal Law
    58
    Gary Oldman, Kevin Bacon, Karen Young
    60 votes
  • Denial
    59
    Jonathan Silverman, Leah Lail, Ryan Alosio
    62 votes
  • Anatomy of a Fall
    60
    Sandra Hüller, Swann Arlaud, Milo Machado Graner
    12 votes

    Anatomy of a Fall centers on Sandra (Sandra Hüller), a writer who becomes a murder suspect in her husband's death after he falls from the top story of their home. She pleads not guilty, and faces a brutal trial led by unrelenting prosecutors. But is Sandra actually innocent? And what does her blind son actually know about the incident? The legal drama, co-written and directed by Justine Triet, was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it garnered numerous awards and nominations, including five Academy Awards nominations, one for best picture of the year.