Law & Order

10 Beste Episodes of Law & Order

In cases ripped from the headlines, police investigate serious and often deadly crimes, weighing the evidence and questioning the suspects until someone is taken into custody. The district attorney's office then builds a case to convict the perpetrator by proving the person guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Working together, these expert teams navigate all sides of the complex criminal justice system to make New York a safer place.

Written by Sophie and last updated on Apr 24, 2024.

PS: The following content contains spoilers!

PPS: I will admit that parts of this page was written with the help of AI - it makes my work so much easier to not start from a blank page!

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Law & Order - S23E5

#15 - Last Dance (Staffel 23 - Folge 5)

In the gripping Law & Order episode "Last Dance," the tranquil setting of Central Park is shattered by a brutal murder that leaves detectives scrambling to uncover the truth. As the investigation unfolds, suspicion falls on two individuals from vastly different worlds: a humble street vendor and a wealthy tech billionaire. The tension escalates as District Attorney McCoy faces intense political pressure to bring the case to a swift resolution.

Amidst the high-stakes drama, viewers witness McCoy's unwavering dedication to seeking justice, even when faced with daunting challenges. In a bold move that showcases his determination, McCoy takes charge of the case and navigates through the murky waters of power and influence. As the episode unfolds, McCoy's actions not only lead to a successful outcome but also mark a poignant moment in his career, culminating in a decision that reverberates throughout the justice system.

As fans bid farewell to the iconic character of Jack McCoy in "Last Dance," his final act serves as a powerful tribute to his legacy. The episode's intense narrative and McCoy's decisive actions leave a lasting impact, reminding audiences of the complexities and moral dilemmas inherent in the pursuit of truth and justice. With its gripping storyline and memorable moments, "Last Dance" encapsulates the essence of Law & Order, making it a fitting conclusion to an era marked by integrity, passion, and the relentless quest for righteousness.

The episode was rated 7,85 from 133 votes.

Law & Order - S16E17

#14 - America, Inc. (Staffel 16 - Folge 17)

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In this gripping episode of Law & Order titled "America, Inc.," the team finds themselves embroiled in a complex web of intrigue and revenge. The murder of Jeffrey Pope, a private military contractor, sets off a chain of events that will leave you on the edge of your seat. As Green and Fontana dig deeper into the case, suspicion leads them to Robbie Howell, the younger brother of a man who lost his life due to Pope's incompetence. But Robbie isn't the only one with a motive. Kevin Boatman, Nick Howell's former co-worker and witness to the tragic events in Iraq, may hold the key to unraveling the truth.

As the investigation unfolds, secrets are revealed, and the lines between justice and vengeance become blurred. With its thought-provoking storyline, "America, Inc." forces viewers to confront the moral complexities of wartime actions and the repercussions they can have on individuals and their loved ones. With every twist and turn, the episode keeps viewers guessing, questioning who is truly responsible for the death of Jeffrey Pope.

"America, Inc." serves as a powerful reminder of the far-reaching consequences of decisions made on the battlefield and the lengths some will go to seek justice. With its gripping narrative and compelling performances, this Law & Order episode is sure to leave a lasting impact and ignite discussions long after the credits roll. Don't miss out on this thrilling installment that explores the darkest corners of human nature and the pursuit of truth.

The episode was rated 7,85 from 80 votes.

Law & Order - S16E14

#13 - Magnet (Staffel 16 - Folge 14)

In this gripping episode of Law & Order titled "Magnet," Detectives Fontana and Green find themselves in a race against time to catch a killer. When a young man is brutally murdered, they quickly apprehend a fellow student as their prime suspect. But little do they know, this case is about to take an unexpected turn.

As the investigation unfolds, viewers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of suspense and anticipation. District Attorney McCoy faces a formidable opponent when he steps into the courtroom to prosecute the crime. With tensions running high, the courtroom drama reaches its peak as both sides present their compelling arguments.

But it's McCoy's closing argument that steals the show. With his eloquence and persuasive skills, he leaves no doubt in the minds of the jury. The guilty verdict brings a sense of satisfaction, as justice is served against the well-funded defense team hired by the wealthy family. The chemistry between McCoy and the defense attorney adds an extra layer of intrigue and excitement throughout the episode.

And in a final twist, as the episode concludes, the defense attorney is left with no choice but to acknowledge McCoy's talent, even attempting to poach him for her own team. This unexpected turn of events leaves viewers with a smile on their faces, knowing that justice prevailed. The tension leading up to the verdict, both in real life and on-screen, adds to the drama and keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.

"Magnet" reminds us of the ever-present tension that comes with awaiting a verdict in both the real world and fiction. It's this tension that adds depth and excitement to the story, making it a must-watch episode for fans of Law & Order.

The episode was rated 7,85 from 74 votes.

Law & Order - S17E16

#12 - Murder Book (Staffel 17 - Folge 16)

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In this gripping episode of Law & Order titled "Murder Book," the murder of publisher Serena Darby sends shockwaves through the community. All eyes quickly turn to J.P. Lange, a former professional baseball player who was previously acquitted of his wife's murder. What makes Lange a prime suspect? He had written a book outlining how he would have committed the very crime he was acquitted of. Talk about a twist!

As Detectives Green and Cassady dig deeper into the case, their investigation leads them to Gerald Stockwell, a former ghostwriter who worked on Lange's book. But just when it seems like Stockwell might be the one to shed some light on the situation, he offers District Attorney McCoy and ADA Rubirosa a shocking revelation. It turns out that one of the jurors in Lange's trial may have been paid off to secure his acquittal. Now, the case takes an unexpected turn.

Fans of Law & Order will be on the edge of their seats as they witness the defendant getting caught in his own web of deceit in this episode. And of course, who can forget the iconic moments when Detective Green unleashes his fiery temper, shutting down suspects with his trademark intensity? It's a testament to the character development of Green, who has learned from seasoned mentors like Lenny and Fontana, and is now ready to take on the role of a mentor himself. Don't miss this thrilling episode that showcases the complex dynamics of the justice system and the pursuit of truth.

The episode was rated 7,85 from 81 votes.

Law & Order - S14E24

#11 - C.O.D. (Staffel 14 - Folge 24)

In this episode of Law & Order titled "C.O.D.", we bid farewell to the beloved character Lenny Briscoe as he leaves the 27th precinct. The episode centers around the successful conclusion of a gripping case involving two women who are accused of killing each other's husbands. As we say goodbye to Lenny, fans reminisce about his witty one-liners that have made him a staple of the show for over a decade. It's always tough to see a familiar face go, but change is inevitable in this ever-evolving series.

While Lenny's departure leaves a void, there have been other notable characters who have made their mark on the show. Fans have grown fond of the recurring police woman at the precinct, who has had a few memorable moments in previous seasons. There was also a tantalizing hint of a romantic relationship between her and Greene, which unfortunately fizzled out. Some viewers hope to see her become a full-fledged detective and join the main cast. Additionally, the reliable medical examiner and tech personnel continue to add intrigue and depth to the series.

Reflecting on Lenny's departure, it's awe-inspiring to think about the loyal viewers who have watched him for a staggering 11 years. For those who have only recently joined the Law & Order fandom, it's bittersweet to bid farewell to such a beloved character. Lenny's willingness to bend the rules in the pursuit of justice and his quick-witted sense of humor made him a fan favorite. Let's not forget the emotional moments he endured, like the heartbreaking episode where his daughter passed away. Fans crave more episodes that delve into the personal lives of the main cast, like the lieutenant's brave act of self-defense from a few seasons ago. As we move forward, uncertainty looms, but we can find solace in the fact that Greene will be staying on the show, a character many viewers have come to appreciate.

The episode was rated 7,85 from 89 votes.

Law & Order - S17E5

#10 - Public Service Homicide (Staffel 17 - Folge 5)

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In the Law & Order episode "Public Service Homicide," the detectives find themselves investigating a murder that is linked to a tabloid talk show called HardFocus. The victim, Carl Mullaly, had recently been featured on the show due to his status as a sex offender exposed by the ScumWatch website. As Green and Cassady dig deeper into the case, they discover that HardFocus may have more involvement than meets the eye.

With only an eight-year-old girl as a witness, the detectives manage to apprehend a suspect. However, as the case progresses, McCoy and Rubirosa uncover disturbing truths about the tabloid talk show. Will they be able to navigate the twisted web of fame and justice?

In a courtroom showdown, Jack delivers a powerful cross-examination that exposes the defendant's true motives. As the trial reaches its climax, McCoy and Rubirosa are faced with the difficult task of seeking justice while untangling the complicated relationship between the media and the truth. Tune in to find out how they navigate the murky waters of fame and the dark underbelly of tabloid journalism.

The episode was rated 7,88 from 84 votes.

Law & Order - S17E21

#9 - Over Here (Staffel 17 - Folge 21)

In this gripping episode of Law & Order titled "Over Here," the seasoned detectives of the NYPD embark on a complex investigation that takes them deep into the heart of the city's homeless community. As they delve into the case, they soon discover a disturbing connection between the deaths of two homeless men and the war in Iraq. With each new revelation, the detectives find themselves facing a web of secrets and unseen forces, forcing them to confront the harsh realities of war and its impact on those left behind.

As the episode unfolds, viewers are taken on a thought-provoking journey that explores the often overlooked struggles of the homeless population. With their innate determination and unwavering commitment to justice, the detectives tirelessly piece together the puzzle, revealing the hidden ties between these tragic deaths and the larger socio-political landscape. This emotionally charged episode sheds light on the devastating consequences of war and its far-reaching effects on society's most vulnerable.

"Over Here" is a poignant reminder that the effects of war seep into every corner of our lives, even in the most unexpected places. As the detectives navigate the complexities of their investigation, viewers are left wondering how far the ripple effects of war truly reach. This thought-provoking episode serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and understanding, particularly in the face of the unseen struggles that exist within our own communities.

The episode was rated 7,92 from 65 votes.

Law & Order - S16E10

#8 - Acid (Staffel 16 - Folge 10)

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In this gripping episode of Law & Order, titled "Acid," the daughter of one of Van Buren's college friends is tragically found dead in her room. Initially ruled as a suicide, Van Buren, played by the talented S. Epatha Merkerson, suspects foul play. Determined to uncover the truth, she teams up with detectives Green and Fontana to hunt down the man responsible for a horrific acid attack that left the young woman scarred and ultimately led to her untimely demise.

As the investigation unfolds, tensions run high as Van Buren faces roadblocks and dead ends. Will she be able to bring the culprit to justice and find closure for her friend? This emotionally charged episode delves into the devastating consequences of a heinous act, highlighting the resilience and determination of our favorite characters. Prepare to be on the edge of your seat as the story takes unexpected twists and turns.

"Acid" is a thought-provoking episode that sheds light on the often dark and complex realities of the criminal justice system. With stellar performances from the cast and a compelling storyline, this installment of Law & Order will leave viewers pondering the consequences of one's actions and the lengths people will go to seek justice. Don't miss this gripping episode that will keep you guessing until the very end.

The episode was rated 7,93 from 81 votes.

Law & Order - S6E23

#7 - Aftershock (Staffel 6 - Folge 23)

In this episode of Law & Order, titled "Aftershock," things take a different turn as there is no crime to solve. Instead, Briscoe, Curtis, McCoy, and Kincaid find themselves grappling with the aftermath of witnessing the execution of a criminal they helped bring to justice. Each character has a unique reaction to the event, and their personal tragedies unfold as a result.

Though there is no central story in this episode, it provides an interesting opportunity to get to know the characters on a deeper level. We see them reflecting and chilling, allowing us to gain insight into their thoughts and emotions. However, some viewers felt that the lack of a central story made the episode lose its pace.

One of the most talked-about aspects of this episode is the ending, which is considered to be one of the saddest in the show's history. It appears that the decision to kill off Claire, the assistant attorney, may have been a way to write out the character as the actress may have wanted to leave the show. This has sparked discussions about the intention behind the creators' choice and whether it was a missed opportunity to keep the character around for future episodes. Nonetheless, Claire is remembered as a valuable member of the team.

The episode was rated 7,93 from 114 votes.

Law & Order - S16E13

#6 - Heart of Darkness (Staffel 16 - Folge 13)

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In the gripping episode titled "Heart of Darkness" from the iconic TV show Law & Order, the plot takes a thrilling turn when a journalist's suicide is called into question. Detectives Green and Fontana stumble upon compelling evidence at the scene, casting doubt on the initial verdict. As the investigation unfolds, viewers are left on the edge of their seats, eager to learn the truth behind this mysterious death.

The episode expertly navigates the complexities of this twisted case, delving into the dark underbelly of the journalism world. Each clue uncovered by Green and Fontana gradually unravels a web of secrets and deceit, leading them closer to the shocking realization that the suicide may have been a meticulously staged cover-up. As the detectives race against time, tensions rise and suspicions mount, leaving audiences anticipating each new twist and turn in this gripping tale.

"Heart of Darkness" showcases the show's trademark blend of compelling storytelling and riveting performances. With its thought-provoking exploration of journalistic ethics and the lengths some will go to protect their secrets, this episode proves to be a thrilling installment that will leave viewers questioning everything they thought they knew. Don't miss this captivating chapter in the Law & Order series, guaranteed to keep you guessing until the very end.

The episode was rated 7,96 from 74 votes.

Law & Order - S16E16

#5 - Cost of Capital (Staffel 16 - Folge 16)

In this gripping episode of Law & Order titled "Cost of Capital," the legal drama takes a thrilling twist as the case against a high-powered executive takes center stage. The executive finds herself accused of a shocking crime - the murder of her lover. But what makes this case truly captivating is that the prosecution's case hinges on the testimony of the executive's estranged husband and her unstable teenage daughter.

As the episode unfolds, viewers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions as they delve into the complex dynamics of this fractured family. Will the estranged husband's testimony be enough to prove the executive's guilt? Or will the unstable teenage daughter hold the key to unraveling the truth? With each passing scene, the tension builds, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats, eager to uncover the shocking twists and turns that lie ahead.

"Cost of Capital" is a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling, expertly blending legal drama with the intricacies of family relationships. The episode explores the price one must pay for success and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets. With its compelling narrative and skilled performances, this Law & Order episode is sure to leave audiences captivated and craving more.

The episode was rated 7,99 from 77 votes.

Law & Order - S17E11

#4 - Remains of the Day (Staffel 17 - Folge 11)

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In this gripping episode of Law & Order, titled "Remains of the Day," things take a dark turn when Michael Jones dies unexpectedly in his mother's hospital room. His mother, Ashley, immediately points the finger at her former husband's adult children, Miles and Hillary Foster, who are currently locked in a bitter battle with her over their father's fortune. However, the autopsy quickly eliminates the Fosters as suspects and leads Detectives Green and Cassady down a new path.

As the investigation unfolds, Green and Cassady uncover a shocking revelation - Michael had received illegally harvested donor bones in a transplant eighteen months prior. This discovery raises disturbing questions about the legitimacy of the transplant and the source of the bones. With this new lead, Green and Cassady are determined to find the truth.

Meanwhile, Assistant District Attorney McCoy and his partner, Rubirosa, face a daunting challenge in prosecuting the case. The only way they can gather the crucial evidence they need is by testing another young man who received bone grafts from the same woman who supplied Michael Jones with his legs. As they navigate this complex legal terrain, McCoy and Rubirosa find themselves facing a moral dilemma that will test the limits of their resolve.

Prepare to be on the edge of your seat as Law & Order unravels the truth behind the mysterious death of Michael Jones and the dark secrets hidden within the world of organ transplants. "Remains of the Day" is an episode that will leave you questioning the ethics of medical procedures and the lengths some will go to protect their secrets.

The episode was rated 8,01 from 85 votes.

Law & Order - S16E21

#3 - Hindsight (Staffel 16 - Folge 21)

In this gripping episode of Law & Order, titled "Hindsight," tensions rise as Fontana and Green find themselves investigating a shocking crime involving someone from their own team. Green's former replacement, the charismatic and enigmatic Nick Falco, becomes the prime suspect in the murder of a young woman he had spent the night with. As the detectives dig deeper into the case, they uncover a web of secrets and hidden motives that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

With its trademark twists and turns, "Hindsight" is a riveting episode that explores the complexities of loyalty and betrayal within the police force. As Fontana and Green race against the clock to uncover the truth, they must confront their own personal demons and question their trust in their colleagues. Will they be able to separate fact from fiction and bring justice to the victim?

Packed with suspense and unexpected revelations, "Hindsight" is an episode that will leave viewers guessing until the very end. With its intriguing storyline and stellar performances, this installment of Law & Order is a must-watch for fans of the beloved crime drama. Don't miss out on the thrill and excitement of "Hindsight" as Fontana and Green navigate the treacherous waters of a case that hits close to home.

The episode was rated 8,01 from 77 votes.

Law & Order - S9E24

#2 - Refuge (Part II) (Staffel 9 - Folge 24)

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In the second part of the Law & Order episode "Refuge," things take a dangerous turn for McCoy and Carmichael. To keep their investigation going, they find themselves having to make a tough decision: jailing witnesses. But by doing so, they risk violating their civil liberties. Will the ends justify the means, or will their actions come back to haunt them?

Throughout the episode, tensions rise as doubts about Detective Curtis start to surface. While he has been a good cop overall, some question his methods, particularly when it comes to roughing up and intimidating suspects. However, these tactics are often necessary to get the answers and convictions needed to bring justice to the victims. It's a fine line that Curtis walks, and his actions continue to spark debate among the team.

In a gripping finale, McCoy delivers a closing statement that leaves no doubt about his dedication to the case. He goes all out by presenting compelling evidence, showing the witnesses shocking pictures that could change everything. As the episode comes to a close, viewers are left wondering what consequences McCoy's bold move will have and how it will impact the ongoing investigation.

The episode was rated 8,03 from 92 votes.

Law & Order - S16E22

#1 - Invaders (Staffel 16 - Folge 22)

In this gripping episode of Law & Order, titled "Invaders," the audience is taken on a thrilling journey filled with twists and turns. The story revolves around the family of a man who had a dark secret - he used to betray his customers by reporting them to the police. However, tragedy strikes when the entire family is brutally murdered, leaving behind a trail of unanswered questions.

As the investigation unfolds, we witness the clash between the determined Assistant District Attorney, Jack McCoy, and a corrupt D.E.A. agent. This intense showdown not only adds an extra layer of suspense to the episode but also raises the stakes for all parties involved. Will McCoy be able to bring the truth to light and ensure justice is served, or will the corrupt agent succeed in obscuring the truth?

"Invaders" is an episode that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. With its intricate plot, complex characters, and unexpected plot twists, it showcases the gripping storytelling that Law & Order is known for. Tune in to witness the battle between good and evil unfold as the truth behind the family's murder is revealed in this thrilling installment of the beloved crime drama series.

The episode was rated 8,21 from 96 votes.

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