In this blog post, we delve into a handpicked selection of the best movies and TV shows about lawyers. Lawyers are often portrayed as intriguing characters, defending justice and fighting for the truth in the courtroom. From riveting courtroom dramas to gripping legal thrillers, the world of law has inspired some of the most captivating movies and TV shows. These compelling narratives showcase the complexities of the legal system, the moral dilemmas faced by attorneys, and the power of persuasive arguments. Get ready to immerse yourself in the gripping world of legal battles, as we explore the top films and series that will leave you both entertained and enlightened.
Best Movies About Lawyers
1. To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)
Set in 1930s Alabama, the film follows Atticus Finch (played by Gregory Peck), a lawyer and father, as he defends Tom Robinson, a black man falsely accused of rape. Through the eyes of Scout, Atticus’s young daughter, the story explores themes of racial injustice, morality, and the loss of innocence. Atticus’s unwavering commitment to justice challenges the deeply ingrained prejudices of the community, leading to a poignant courtroom drama that questions societal norms.
2. 12 Angry Men (1957)
After a murder trial, twelve jurors are locked in a room to deliberate the fate of a young man accused of killing his father. As the deliberations unfold, tensions rise and conflicts emerge, exposing personal biases and preconceptions. Through intense debates and character revelations, the film delves into the complexities of the justice system, highlighting the power of persuasion and the importance of critical thinking. It becomes a compelling exploration of justice, prejudice, and the human capacity for change.
3. A Few Good Men (1992)
When two Marines are charged with the murder of a fellow soldier at Guantanamo Bay, Navy lawyer Lieutenant Daniel Kaffee (played by Tom Cruise) is assigned to defend them. As he investigates the case, Kaffee uncovers a high-level conspiracy that goes beyond the accused soldiers. With the help of his colleague, Lieutenant Commander JoAnne Galloway (played by Demi Moore), Kaffee battles the military establishment to uncover the truth and expose the system’s flaws in a gripping courtroom showdown.
4. Legally Blonde (2001)
In this comedy, Elle Woods (played by Reese Witherspoon), a fashion-conscious sorority girl, follows her ex-boyfriend to Harvard Law School in an attempt to win him back. Initially underestimated and dismissed, Elle surprises everyone with her determination and legal prowess. Along the way, she discovers her true potential and learns valuable lessons about friendship, self-confidence, and the power of staying true to oneself. With her unique perspective and infectious optimism, Elle challenges stereotypes and proves that success knows no boundaries.
5. “Philadelphia” (1993)
A powerful drama, “Philadelphia” follows Andrew Beckett (Tom Hanks), a talented lawyer who is fired from his prestigious law firm after they discover he has contracted HIV/AIDS. Determined to fight back, Andrew hires Joe Miller (Denzel Washington), an initially reluctant attorney, to represent him in a wrongful dismissal lawsuit. As the case unfolds, the film explores themes of discrimination, homophobia, and the struggle for justice in the face of adversity. “Philadelphia” is a moving and poignant portrayal of one man’s fight for equality and acceptance.
6. “The Verdict” (1982)
“The Verdict” tells the story of Frank Galvin (Paul Newman), a down-on-his-luck lawyer who takes on a medical malpractice case involving a young woman left in a coma. Initially, Frank sees the case as an opportunity for an easy settlement, but as he investigates further, he uncovers a web of corruption and deceit. Driven by a newfound sense of justice, he decides to take the case to trial, facing off against powerful lawyers and a system that seems stacked against him. This gripping legal drama explores themes of redemption, integrity, and the pursuit of truth.
7. “My Cousin Vinny” (1992)
“My Cousin Vinny” is a hilarious comedy that follows the misadventures of Vinny Gambini (Joe Pesci), a brash New York lawyer who is unexpectedly thrown into his first murder trial in rural Alabama. With no courtroom experience and a flamboyant personality that clashes with the conservative Southern environment, Vinny faces an uphill battle. Assisted by his street-smart fiancée, Mona Lisa Vito (Marisa Tomei), who proves to be surprisingly knowledgeable about cars and forensic evidence, Vinny must overcome various obstacles to prove his clients’ innocence and win the case.
8. “Erin Brockovich” (2000)
Based on a true story, “Erin Brockovich” follows the titular character (Julia Roberts), a feisty and determined legal assistant with no formal training in law. Erin takes on a giant utility company accused of polluting a small town’s water supply, resulting in widespread illnesses. As she digs deeper into the case, Erin’s tenacity and resourcefulness bring her closer to uncovering the truth. With the odds stacked against her, she must fight against corporate power and overcome personal obstacles to seek justice for the affected community. This inspiring film highlights the power of perseverance and the impact of a single individual’s actions.
9. Michael Clayton (2007)
Michael Clayton (George Clooney) is a “fixer” at a prestigious law firm, tasked with cleaning up the messes caused by wealthy clients. When one of the firm’s top litigators, Arthur Edens (Tom Wilkinson), suffers a breakdown and sabotages a crucial case, Clayton must uncover the truth behind his friend’s actions. As he delves deeper, Clayton finds himself caught in a web of corporate corruption and conspiracy, risking his own life in a high-stakes battle against powerful forces.
10. A Time to Kill (1996)
In the racially charged town of Canton, Mississippi, a young African-American girl is brutally assaulted. Carl Lee Hailey (Samuel L. Jackson), the girl’s father, takes justice into his own hands and kills the two white men responsible. Jake Brigance (Matthew McConaughey), a white lawyer, agrees to defend Hailey, facing intense hostility and a divided community. As the trial unfolds, Brigance fights to secure justice in a racially divided legal system while confronting personal and professional challenges that threaten his own safety and the outcome of the case.
Best TV Shows About Lawyers
1. Suits (2011-2019)
“Suits” follows the brilliant college dropout Mike Ross, who starts working as a law associate for Harvey Specter despite never having attended law school. Together, they navigate the high-stakes world of corporate law in a top New York firm while trying to keep Mike’s secret hidden. The show delves into their complex relationships, legal cases, and the challenges they face to maintain their deception.
2. Law & Order (1990-2010)
“Law & Order” is a procedural drama series that explores the criminal justice system through two distinct but interconnected perspectives: the police who investigate crimes and the district attorneys who prosecute the offenders. Each episode presents a new case, from initial investigation to courtroom trial, highlighting the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by the law enforcement officers and lawyers as they seek justice.
3. Better Call Saul
“Better Call Saul” serves as a prequel and spin-off to the critically acclaimed series “Breaking Bad.” Set in the early 2000s, it follows Jimmy McGill, a small-time lawyer striving to make a name for himself in the legal world. As Jimmy navigates the legal system in Albuquerque, New Mexico, he encounters colorful characters and faces personal and professional challenges that ultimately lead him down a path towards becoming the morally compromised lawyer, Saul Goodman.
4. The Good Wife (2009-2016)
“The Good Wife” revolves around Alicia Florrick, a resilient and intelligent woman who returns to her career as a lawyer after her husband, a prominent politician, is involved in a sex and corruption scandal. The series explores Alicia’s journey as she rebuilds her professional life, taking on challenging cases while dealing with office politics, complicated relationships, and her own personal growth, all within the backdrop of the legal and political landscape of Chicago.
5. “How to Get Away with Murder” (2014-2020)
A brilliant criminal defense professor, Annalise Keating, teaches a class called “How to Get Away with Murder” at Middleton University. Alongside her select group of students, they become entangled in a real murder case, testing their knowledge and moral boundaries. The students, known as the “Keating 5,” navigate a series of twists, secrets, and suspenseful court cases while also dealing with their personal lives. Annalise’s complex past, her mentoring, and the ever-present question of who committed the original murder form the core of this gripping legal thriller.
6. “Boston Legal” (2004-2008)
This comedic legal drama follows the eccentric and unorthodox lawyers of Crane, Poole & Schmidt, a renowned law firm in Boston. Led by the brilliant and ethically questionable attorney Alan Shore, along with his partner Denny Crane, they take on high-profile cases while dealing with personal and professional challenges. The series delves into controversial legal issues, such as civil rights, corporate ethics, and social justice, while also exploring the complex relationships and dynamics among the firm’s lawyers.
7. “The Practice” (1997-2004)
“The Practice” revolves around the lives and cases of the passionate attorneys at the law firm of Donnell, Young, Dole & Frutt. Led by Bobby Donnell, a talented defense attorney, the team handles a wide range of legal matters, from criminal defense to civil litigation. Each episode presents a new case, often with moral and ethical dilemmas, as the lawyers strive to achieve justice while facing personal struggles and professional challenges. The series delves into the complexities of the legal system and the human condition.
8. “Ally McBeal” (1997-2002)
Set in the fictional Boston law firm Cage and Fish, “Ally McBeal” follows the quirky and imaginative lawyer Ally McBeal as she navigates her professional and personal life. Ally faces both comedic and dramatic situations, including unusual cases, romantic entanglements, and complicated relationships with her colleagues. The show explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the challenges faced by women in the workplace. With a touch of fantasy and musical interludes, “Ally McBeal” presents a unique blend of legal drama and comedic elements.
9. Damages (2007-2012)
“Damages” is a legal thriller series that follows the intense and complex world of high-stakes litigation. The show revolves around brilliant and ruthless lawyer Patty Hewes (Glenn Close) and her protégé Ellen Parsons (Rose Byrne). As they navigate the cutthroat world of law, the series delves into the dark secrets, power plays, and moral dilemmas of both the lawyers and their clients. With its non-linear storytelling and compelling performances, “Damages” keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as they uncover the layers of intrigue and deception within the legal realm.
10. L.A. Law (1986-1994)
“L.A. Law” is a popular legal drama series set in a fictional Los Angeles law firm called McKenzie, Brackman, Chaney, and Kuzak. The show explores the personal and professional lives of the firm’s diverse group of lawyers as they handle a wide range of cases. With a mix of courtroom drama, character-driven storylines, and social issues, “L.A. Law” offers a captivating portrayal of the legal system and the complexities that arise within the legal profession. The series achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success, becoming a significant influence on subsequent legal dramas.
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