Legal dramas are a beloved genre of TV shows that many viewers enjoy settling down to watch after a demanding day. These series offer a compelling mix of intensity, intelligence, and often a splash of comedy. Over the years, numerous shows have captivated audiences, with some of the finest examples emerging in the 2020s, showcasing innovative storytelling and exceptional performances.
The top legal drama series from the 2020s feature a variety of formats, including single-season hits, reimaginings of classic themes, and fresh narratives that introduce unique twists. Each series offers something intriguing and is definitely worth your viewing time. Below is a list of the best legal dramas from this decade so far.
10
‘Defending Jacob’ (2020)
Created by Mark Bomback
The murder-mystery legal drama miniseries Defending Jacob consists of a single season but presents a profoundly gripping narrative featuring an impressive cast. The story revolves around Jacob (Jaeden Martell), a 14-year-old boy who faces murder accusations. His parents, Andy (Chris Evans), an assistant district attorney, and Laurie (Michelle Dockery), are thrust into a harrowing situation that tests their family’s unity and forces them to confront their beliefs about their son’s innocence.
Spanning eight episodes, Defending Jacob is adapted from the novel by William Landay and has garnered acclaim for its emotional depth and the stellar performances of its cast. Although the series finale received mixed reactions from some viewers, it remains one of the most compelling legal dramas in recent years, well worth a watch for fans of the genre.
9
‘All Rise’ (2019–2023)
Created by Greg Spottiswood
All Rise is a compelling procedural legal drama that takes place in a bustling Los Angeles courthouse, shining a spotlight on the lives of judges, prosecutors, and public defenders. The series centers on Judge Lola Carmichael (Simone Missick), a former deputy district attorney who is passionate about justice and committed to her role, ensuring that no injustices are overlooked.
This series transitioned from CBS to OWN for its concluding season and sparked discussions regarding its representation of race and gender issues. All Rise stands out in the legal drama genre by shifting the focus towards the judiciary, providing a refreshing perspective that distinguishes it from other series that typically center around lawyers.
All Rise
- Release Date
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2019 – 2022
- Showrunner
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Greg Spottiswood (Seasons 1-2), Dee Harris-Lawrence (Season 3)
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Simone Missick
Lola Carmichael
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Jessica Camacho
Emily Lopez
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J. Alex Brinson
Luke Watkins
8
‘Accused’ (2023–)
Created by Howard Gordon
Arguably one of the most intriguing new legal dramas that viewers may not be familiar with, <em>Accused</em> is a crime drama inspired by the British series of the same name. Each episode offers a unique narrative focused on an individual in court facing serious allegations. The captivating twist is that audiences are kept in suspense regarding the specific crime and the evidence that led to their arrest. The narrative unfolds from the defendant’s perspective, as they recount the events leading up to their trial.
With two seasons already aired, Accused features a diverse cast each season, including notable actors such as Michael Chiklis, Megan Boone, Lauren Ridloff, Rachel Bilson, Malcolm Jamal-Warner, Margo Martindale, and Jason Ritter. This series offers a unique lens into the legal system, setting it apart from other shows on television.
7
‘Reasonable Doubt’ (2022–)
Created by Raamla Mohamed
In Reasonable Doubt, the talented Emayatzy Corinealdi portrays Jax Stewart, a corporate criminal defense lawyer navigating the complexities of high-profile cases. As if her legal career wasn’t challenging enough, she also faces personal struggles, including a separation from her husband and the responsibilities of raising her children, alongside dealing with a former client who has recently been released from prison.
With a third season set to premiere in September 2025, Reasonable Doubt started strong with its first season, achieving a 100% Rotten Tomatoes critics score and receiving accolades for its well-drawn characters, intricate drama, and a soap opera-like quality that keeps audiences engaged.
Reasonable Doubt
- Release Date
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September 27, 2022
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McKinley Freeman
Lewis Stewart
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Angela Grovey
Krystal Walters
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Thaddeus J. Mixson
Spenser Stewart
6
‘Family Law’ (2021–)
Created by Susin Nielsen
Originating from Canada, Family Law showcases a cast of familiar faces, including Victor Garber (Alias), Lauren Holly (Dumb and Dumber), and Jewel Staite (Firefly). The narrative follows Abigail Bianchi (Staite), a lawyer grappling with her recovery from alcoholism while working for her estranged father and half-siblings as part of her probation requirements. While managing family law cases for the first time, she discovers parallels between her clients’ dysfunction and her own family issues.
Family Law brings a raw, emotional, and personal perspective to the genre, setting itself apart from the more formulaic procedural dramas. With a fourth season on the horizon in North America (having already premiered in Europe), this show is a hidden gem that deserves attention.
Family Law
- Release Date
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September 16, 2021
- Network
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Global TV
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Jewel Staite
Abigail ‘Abby’ Bianchi
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Zach Smadu
Daniel Svensson
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Genelle Williams
Lucy Svensson
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Lauren Holly
Joanne Kowalski
5
‘Presumed Innocent’ (2024–)
Created by David E. Kelley
Adapted from the acclaimed Scott Turow novel and a modern retelling of the 1990 film featuring Harrison Ford, <em>Presumed Innocent</em> offers a fresh perspective on a timeless narrative. In this series, Jake Gyllenhaal plays Rusty Sabich, a prosecutor ensnared in the murder of his coworker with whom he had an affair. Dubbed Apple TV+’s most-watched drama, Presumed Innocent unfolds as a slow-burning thriller across its eight episodes, gradually building tension as Rusty faces numerous obstacles.
With a second season in the works, expected to draw from the upcoming Jo Murray novel titled Dissection of a Murder, anticipation is high as fans look forward to the return of this captivating legal drama.
4
‘Perry Mason’ (2020–2023)
Created by Rolin Jones and Ron Fitzgerald
This captivating historical drama, Perry Mason, is inspired by the iconic character created by Erle Stanley Gardner, who was first portrayed in the acclaimed series of the same name during the 1950s and 1960s featuring Raymond Burr. The role is now undertaken by Matthew Rhys, who depicts a defense attorney in Los Angeles in 1932, navigating the societal aftermath of the Great Depression. Haunted by war trauma and grappling with a recent divorce, he finds himself embroiled in a complex kidnapping trial filled with unexpected twists.
Over its two-season run, Perry Mason received positive feedback, praised for its storytelling, compelling performances, and stunning visuals that vividly depict the era it represents.
perry mason
- Release Date
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2020 – 2022
- Network
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HBO Max
- Showrunner
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Jack Amiel
3
‘Your Honor’ (2020–2023)
Created by Peter Moffat
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