Introduction
Hey there, readers!
Are you intrigued by the world of Law & Order? Do you find yourself captivated by the dramatic courtroom scenes and the relentless pursuit of justice? If so, then you’re in for a treat! Today, we’re diving deep into the iconic cast of attorneys who have graced the screens of Law & Order throughout its illustrious history. From the sharp-witted prosecutors to the cunning defense attorneys, we’ll explore their backgrounds, memorable moments, and the impact they’ve had on the show. So sit back, relax, and let’s delve into the fascinating world of Law & Order attorneys!
The Prosecutors
Adam Schiff (Steven Hill)
Assistant District Attorney (1990-2000)
Adam Schiff, played by the legendary Steven Hill, was one of the longest-serving prosecutors on Law & Order. Known for his unwavering determination and sharp intellect, Schiff tirelessly fought for justice. He possessed a deep understanding of the law and a relentless drive to see criminals brought to account. Schiff’s iconic presence and commanding demeanor made him a formidable force in the courtroom.
Jack McCoy (Sam Waterston)
Executive Assistant District Attorney (1994-2010)
Sam Waterston brought to life the esteemed character of Jack McCoy, a prosecutor known for his cunning and unwavering belief in the justice system. McCoy’s sharp wit and ability to dissect cases with precision made him a formidable adversary. He was a master strategist who often used unconventional tactics to secure convictions. McCoy’s tenure on Law & Order spanned over two decades, leaving an indelible mark on the show.
Serena Southerlyn (Elisabeth Röhm)
Assistant District Attorney (2001-2005)
Elisabeth Röhm portrayed the ambitious and driven Serena Southerlyn, a young prosecutor who quickly rose through the ranks. Southerlyn’s intelligence and passion for justice made her a valuable asset to the DA’s office. She was known for her unwavering determination and ability to connect with victims on a personal level. Southerlyn’s departure from Law & Order left a void that fans still feel today.
The Defense Attorneys
Benjamin Stone (Michael Moriarty)
Defense Attorney (1990-1994)
Michael Moriarty brought to life the enigmatic and brilliant Benjamin Stone, one of the most iconic defense attorneys in television history. Stone was a master manipulator who often used unorthodox methods to defend his clients. He possessed an uncanny ability to see flaws in the prosecution’s case and exploit them to his advantage. Stone’s unconventional approach to law earned him both admiration and controversy.
Claire Kincaid (Jill Hennessy)
Defense Attorney (1993-1996)
Jill Hennessy portrayed the strong-willed and compassionate Claire Kincaid, a defense attorney who fiercely defended her clients’ rights. Kincaid was known for her unwavering determination and her ability to connect with juries on a human level. She often challenged the status quo and fought tirelessly for the underdog. Kincaid’s departure from Law & Order marked a significant loss for the show.
Bayard Ellis (Fred Thompson)
Defense Attorney (2002-2006)
Fred Thompson brought his signature charisma to the role of Bayard Ellis, a charismatic and witty defense attorney. Ellis was known for his ability to connect with juries and his gift for simplifying complex legal concepts. He often used his charm and humor to his advantage, but he was also a skilled strategist who knew how to win cases. Ellis’s tenure on Law & Order was marked by memorable performances and high-profile trials.
The Judges
Walter Devlin (George Dzundza)
Judge (1990-1991, 1992-1993)
George Dzundza portrayed the stern and enigmatic Judge Walter Devlin, who presided over countless cases on Law & Order. Devlin was known for his no-nonsense approach and his unwavering dedication to upholding the law. He was a respected figure in the courtroom, but his personal life was often shrouded in mystery.
Lennie Briscoe (Jerry Orbach)
Detective (1992-2004), Judge (2008-2010)
The beloved Jerry Orbach played the iconic Detective Lennie Briscoe, a veteran homicide detective who later became a judge. Briscoe’s gruff exterior hid a compassionate heart, and his keen eye for detail made him a formidable investigator. As a judge, he brought his practical experience to the courtroom, ensuring that justice was served fairly.
The Guest Stars
Throughout its long-running history, Law & Order has featured an impressive array of guest stars, including:
- Annabella Sciorra as Detective Eileen Swaitek
- Dianne Wiest as Defense Attorney Vanessa Mumford
- Christopher Meloni as Detective Elliot Stabler (originally a guest star on Law & Order before becoming a main character in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit)
Cast Breakdown
Name | Role | Years on Law & Order |
---|---|---|
Steven Hill | Adam Schiff | 1990-2000 |
Sam Waterston | Jack McCoy | 1994-2010 |
Elisabeth Röhm | Serena Southerlyn | 2001-2005 |
Michael Moriarty | Benjamin Stone | 1990-1994 |
Jill Hennessy | Claire Kincaid | 1993-1996 |
Fred Thompson | Bayard Ellis | 2002-2006 |
George Dzundza | Walter Devlin | 1990-1991, 1992-1993 |
Jerry Orbach | Lennie Briscoe | 1992-2004 |
Conclusion
Well, readers, there you have it! We’ve journeyed through the halls of the Law & Order courtroom, exploring the fascinating cast of attorneys who have graced our screens. From the unrelenting prosecutors to the cunning defense attorneys, each character has brought their unique talents and perspectives to the pursuit of justice. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the world of Law & Order, we hope this deep dive into the cast has provided you with a deeper appreciation for the show’s enduring legacy.
And speaking of legacy, don’t forget to check out our other articles on Law & Order! We’ve got a treasure trove of content covering everything from iconic episodes to behind-the-scenes secrets. So keep exploring, and let the law and order attorneys guide you through the fascinating world of crime and justice!
FAQ about Law & Order Attorneys Cast
Who played Jack McCoy?
Sam Waterston
Who played Benjamin Stone?
Anthony Anderson
Who played Anita Van Buren?
S. Epatha Merkerson
Who played Lenny Briscoe?
Jerry Orbach
Who played Lennie Briscoe’s partner?
Ed Green (Jesse L. Martin)
Who played Alexandra Cabot?
Stephanie March
Who played Michael Cutter?
Linus Roache
Who played Nora Lewin?
Dianne Wiest
Who played Jeffrey Donovan?
Detective John Munch
Who played Abbie Carmichael?
Angie Harmon