The courtroom is the perfect setting for high-stakes on-screen drama that captivates audiences. Given the complexity and power dynamics prevalent in the legal world, it comes as no surprise that there are a ton of lawyer-centric shows on television. Some of them have propelled right to the top of must-watch lists all around the world, given that they offer the right mix of exceptional storytelling, character development, and excitement that audiences expect from legal dramas.
1. Suits (2011–2019)
This is arguably one of the most popular legal dramas. With a cast featuring notable personalities like Patrick J. Adams, Meghan Markle, Gabriel Macht, and Sarah Rafferty, Suits revolves primarily around the life of Mike Ross (played by Adams). Ross is a college dropout who makes his way to a prestigious law firm despite not having the degree for it. Working under the firm’s top attorney, Harvey Specter, Ross relies on his quick thinking, exceptional memory, and immense dedication to win the trust of his bosses and peers alike. The show explores the inner workings of the law firm, and in doing so, it exposes viewers to a lot of legal terminology mixed in with sharp, witty banter.
2. The Practice (1997–2004)
This show was created by David E. Kelley, a revered name in the world of television legal dramas. It presented a more realistic view of the country’s legal system without trivializing any of the conversations. The Practice explored the complexities of personal morality with great sensitivity, offering viewers greater insight into what it means to be a lawyer. Thanks to its stellar writing and production, the show won three of the seven Golden Globe awards and 15 of the 42 Emmys for which it was nominated.
3. The Good Wife (2009–2016)
Inspired by the lives of the wives of high-profile politicians embroiled in scandals, The Good Wife explores the life of Alicia Florrick (played by Julianna Margulies), who goes back to law when her husband is caught in a scandal. The show focuses on the complex relationship dynamics, offering a more realistic view of the legal world than most other TV dramas. Throughout its runtime, The Good Wife maintained an audience of over 10 million viewers, which is a true testament to the brilliance of the show’s plot and characters.
4. How to Get Away with Murder (2014–2020)
With a one-of-a-kind theme and exceptional writing, How to Get Away with Murder is another highly recommended legal drama series. The show revolves around the life of Annalise Keating (played by Viola Davis), who takes five students under her wing at Philadelphia University. Over the seasons, the group works to cover up murders, with the stories and lies becoming more complex and dramatic. While Davis is a powerhouse on the show, her supporting stars, Jack Falahee, Aja Naomi King, and Alfred Enoch, all bring a unique depth to it.
5. Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (1999–Present)
A spinoff of one of the most popular TV franchises, Law & Order, this show is situated in a fictionalized district of the NYPD. The show is loosely inspired by real-life events, a fact that gets the series even more public attention. It stars Mariska Hargitay as the central character, Captain Olivia Benson, and primarily deals with cases of harassment and abuse.
6. The Lincoln Lawyer (2022–Present)
One of the most trending shows on Netflix, The Lincoln Lawyer, continues to get attention thanks to its fast-paced storytelling approach. The show is based on books by Michael Connelly, a popular crime writer. It stars Manuel-Garcia Rulfo as Mickey Haller as he navigates cases and a complicated personal life. Thanks to its popularity, the show is now in its third season.
7. Better Call Saul (2015–2022)
A spinoff of the popular TV drama Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul offers deeper insights into organized criminal activities in Albuquerque. But what truly makes it stand out is its approach to depicting scandals and courtroom proceedings on screen. Thanks to the stellar direction, Better Call Saul has received 78 Emmy nominations and six Golden Globe nominations.
8. Damages (2007–2012)
Although shorter than many other TV legal dramas, Damages is considered one of the most engaging shows. The series properly breaks down how legal proceedings go, giving viewers insights into the time, depth, research, and effort required from lawyers, with each case lasting a whole season. One of the most notable roles in the show is played by Glenn Close as Patty Hewes, an attorney who is willing to do whatever it takes to win the case.
9. Rake (2010–2018)
Those looking for something that falls outside the scope of the national legal system will enjoy Rake. This Australian series has a defense lawyer, Cleaver Greene (played by Richard Roxburgh), as its lead. Right from the start, though, the writers clarify that Greene is not a hero. On the contrary, he takes great delight in defending guilty people, making him a rather sinister but interesting character to follow.
10. Perry Mason (2020–2023)
Although a remake of an older legal TV show with the same name, which was based on a book series, Perry Mason does a wonderful job of crafting a niche for itself with its audiences. Set in the 1930s, the show features Matthew Rhys as the lead (Mason) as an attorney looking to find his way back from stories of murder, corruption, and scandal. Since it’s set in the 30s, the show takes a rather interesting black-and-white approach, making it stand out among other legal TV dramas.