Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

10 Best Episodes of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

Since its premiere on NBC in 1999, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit has aired 25 seasons of gripping, suspenseful, and often emotionally charged investigations into some of the most heinous felonies. This long-running series has built a reputation as one of the best crime dramas on television, captivating audiences with its intense, realistic storylines. With so many incredible episodes to choose from, it's no wonder that Law & Order: Special Victims Unit has remained a fan favorite for so long. In this article, we'll be ranking the best episodes of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, looking at some of the show's most memorable and memorable moments.

From the heartbreaking cases to the intense and dramatic courtroom scenes, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit has been responsible for some of the most gripping television of all time. From the show's earliest days to its most recent season, there have been some truly incredible episodes that have stood out from the rest. We'll be looking at some of the most memorable and impactful episodes of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, ranked from best to worst.

From the iconic characters to the intense investigations, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit has made its mark on television as one of the best crime dramas ever. With so many great episodes to choose from, it can be difficult to pick out the best of the best. We'll be looking at some of the most acclaimed episodes of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, ranking the best episodes from the show's 25 season run.

Written by Sophie and last updated on nov 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!

Advertisement
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit - S15E20

#15 - Beast's Obsession (Season 15 - Episode 20)

In the Law & Order: Special Victims Unit episode “Beast's Obsession”, Benson is assigned a 24/7 security detail when William Lewis escapes from prison and starts killing again. Benson must decide how much she is willing to sacrifice to save a child's life. This episode was known to be intense and many viewers were apprehensive to watch it. Upon its release, viewers were relieved that this was the last episode of this arc.

Many viewers have expressed their exhaustion with this story arc and felt that it had been dragged out for too long. After watching the episode, viewers were thankful that Lewis was finally dead. Despite the closure, the next episode was also about this arc and many viewers were hesitant to watch it.

The episode was rated 8.00 from 302 votes.

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit - S13E12

#14 - Official Story (Season 13 - Episode 12)

Advertisement

In the episode "Official Story" of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Detectives Benson and Amaro are faced with a difficult case. The CEO of a military contractor has been assaulted, and the victim is proving to be resistant to the investigation. The detectives must navigate the politics of the case and find a way to get to the truth of what happened.

The CEO has a powerful influence in the military and government, and it is clear that Benson and Amaro must tread carefully. As they question witnesses and search for clues, they must be aware of the potential ramifications of their investigation. This case is sure to be a challenge for the detectives, as they must work around the victim's resistance and uncover the truth of the assault.

The episode was rated 8.01 from 193 votes.

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit - S14E2

#13 - Above Suspicion (2) (Season 14 - Episode 2)

In the latest episode of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, titled "Above Suspicion (2)", the stakes are higher than ever as Delia's reign of terror continues. As she meticulously covers her tracks, the Special Victims Unit is left to untangle a web of accusations, frame-ups, and even murder. The team is determined to find the evidence they need to prove that Donald Crages is being framed, but the path ahead is treacherous and filled with unexpected twists and turns.

Throughout the episode, viewers are kept on the edge of their seats as the SVU team races against the clock to uncover the truth. Delia's cunning and manipulation make it clear that no one is above suspicion, and the consequences of her actions ripple through the lives of everyone involved. With each new revelation, the team must navigate a complex maze of corruption, deceit, and political intrigue, all while striving to bring justice to those who have been wronged.

As the episode comes to its gripping conclusion, viewers will be left wondering if the corrupt politicians will finally face the consequences they so deserve. Law & Order: Special Victims Unit once again delivers an intense and captivating storyline, leaving us eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this thrilling series.

The episode was rated 8.01 from 186 votes.

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit - S10E22

#12 - Zebras (Season 10 - Episode 22)

Advertisement

In the Law & Order: Special Victims Unit episode "Zebras", the SVU team is thrown into high alert when a murder in Central Park involves a tourist. After bringing in a suspect for questioning, the suspect escapes, forcing Munch to reach out to an ex-wife for help in stopping another potential murder.

The episode is set against the backdrop of the bustling Central Park, with the crime scene at the heart of the action. The SVU team is faced with a difficult situation, as they must track down the suspect while also trying to prevent another potential killing. With the help of Munch's ex-wife, they must act quickly in order to bring the perpetrator to justice and keep the public safe.

The episode was rated 8.02 from 222 votes.

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit - S15E17

#11 - Gambler's Fallacy (Season 15 - Episode 17)

In the episode of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit titled "Gambler's Fallacy", Detective Amanda Rollins strikes a deal with the managers of a gambling club in order to protect her job. Unbeknownst to her, her actions draw the suspicion of Detectives Benson and Tutuola. As a result, Amanda is almost put in a situation where everything she worked for could be lost.

The episode was filled with suspense and drama as the audience watched Amanda's story unfold. Despite her best intentions, Olivia's decision to try and help someone almost cost her everything. At the same time, Benson and Tutuola's suspicions were aroused, providing an interesting twist to the story. This episode showcased how even the best-laid plans can have unexpected consequences and the importance of making smart decisions.

The episode was rated 8.03 from 280 votes.

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit - S15E4

#10 - Internal Affairs (Season 15 - Episode 4)

Advertisement

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit is a crime drama series that follows a team of detectives in the Special Victims Unit of the NYPD as they investigate cases involving sex crimes. In the episode “Internal Affairs,” Officer Michael Groves finds himself in a psych ward after making accusations against members of the 12th precinct. This prompts Internal Affairs to step in and ask the team to help with their investigation.

The episode follows the team as they uncover the truth about the accusations made by Officer Groves, and the deeper meaning behind the events. Along the way, the detectives must navigate the tricky waters of Internal Affairs, a task which proves to be more difficult than they initially anticipated. As the case progresses, the team must also grapple with the moral implications of the situation and how it will affect the lives of those involved.

The episode was rated 8.03 from 309 votes.

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit - S16E20

#9 - Daydream Believer (III) (Season 16 - Episode 20)

On Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, the episode Daydream Believer (III) brings a crossover with Chicago Fire and Chicago P.D. A decade old New York City case has a similar crime in Chicago, so officers from Chicago travel to NYC and join the squad to investigate. The crossover begins with Chicago Fire S03E21 We Called Her Jellybean (I) and Chicago P.D. S02E20 The Number of Rats (II).

Rafael Barba, the Assistant District Attorney for Manhattan, is a key part of the episode. Barba is a fan favorite for his intelligence, wit and dedication to justice. His involvement in the case is sure to be an exciting moment as the team from Chicago and the squad from New York work together to track down the suspect they had to release earlier.

The episode was rated 8.05 from 386 votes.

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit - S13E17

#8 - Justice Denied (Season 13 - Episode 17)

Advertisement

In the episode, "Justice Denied" of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Detective Benson's (Mariska Hargitay) rape case from the past is reopened due to similarities to a new case. With this reopening, the possibility arises that an innocent man may have been wrongfully convicted. With her work and decisions being called into question, tension between Detective Benson, ADA Haden (Elizabeth Marvel), and Bayard Ellis (Andre Braugher) ensues.

The episode follows Detective Benson as she is forced to revisit her past mistakes and doubt her own work. Benson must find a way to prove the man's innocence and clear her name. With help from her colleagues and her own investigative skills, Benson is able to uncover the truth and free the wrongfully convicted man. In the end, justice is served and Benson is able to move forward with her career.

The episode was rated 8.05 from 203 votes.

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit - S15E24

#7 - Spring Awakening (Season 15 - Episode 24)

In the episode "Spring Awakening" of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Detective Amaro must face the consequences of his reckless behavior. When an online ad for escorts leads to the rape and robbery of tourists, Benson discovers her connection to one of the suspects.

The moment when Olivia decides to take Noah home with her is a tender one. Throughout the episode, Benson must overcome the obstacles of the case, while Amaro is faced with the weight of his actions. Benson's decision to bring Noah home displays her strength and compassion, making it a memorable moment in the episode.

The episode was rated 8.06 from 263 votes.

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit - S6E16

#6 - Ghost (Season 6 - Episode 16)

Advertisement

The episode "Ghost" of the show Law & Order: Special Victims Unit brings back Alex Cabot to face her enemies. After a wealthy couple is found dead in their home, Benson and Stabler soon realise that their deaths are connected to a drug smuggling ring. The road eventually leads back to the same drug dealers who forced a former assistant district attorney into hiding. The return of Alex Cabot was welcomed by the fans of the show and Casey already gained her space. Although Novak's performance was fine, this episode highlighted for everyone that Cabot was the favorite.

The antagonist of the episode showed to be a pretty bad assassin. He failed to kill Cabot and even failed to kill a child at point-blank range. To make matters worse, he didn't even confirm the kill. Everyone was shocked by his incompetence, as it is impossible to mess up a job like that. All in all, this was a pretty good episode.

The episode was rated 8.11 from 236 votes.

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit - S14E9

#5 - Dreams Deferred (Season 14 - Episode 9)

In Law & Order: Special Victims Unit's episode "Dreams Deferred", a man goes on a killing spree that is linked to a prostitute Benson encountered in a prior investigation. When the FBI finds out about this connection, they contact SVU for information. SVU is tasked with finding out why the man went on the killing spree and unearthing any possible leads that can help bring him to justice.

The team soon discovers that the man had a troubled past, with a history of abuse and neglect. He was also in a difficult financial situation, which was the motivation behind his heinous actions. As the investigation progresses, SVU soon finds out that this killing spree was a desperate attempt to make something out of his life. This episode showcases the complex nature of crime and the effect of poverty on individuals.

The episode was rated 8.12 from 250 votes.

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit - S17E23

#4 - Heartfelt Passages (2) (Season 17 - Episode 23)

Advertisement

The Law & Order: Special Victims Unit episode Heartfelt Passages (2) is an intense episode that captures the audience's attention and ultimately leaves them with tears in their eyes. The episode follows the SVU squad as they investigate Corrections Officer Gary Munson. After the investigation deepens, Munson and his union take drastic actions that put ADA Barba and the SVU squad in danger.

Mike Dodds, the son of Captain Donal Dodds, enters the UVE and proves to be a great asset to the team. His presence quickly wins over the hearts of the viewers, making his sudden death more shocking and heartbreaking. This is the first time the unit loses one of their own and it is a difficult moment for them. The episode is certainly one that will make viewers cry.

The episode was rated 8.13 from 671 votes.

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit - S7E3

#3 - 911 (Season 7 - Episode 3)

In the episode of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit titled "911", Olivia Benson is on her way out for the evening when a call comes in from a little girl who says she's all alone. Benson is drawn deeper into the little girl's life, and although the other officers begin to suspect the whole thing may be some sick joke, Benson is convinced that the little girl is the real deal. Through talking to Maria, Benson is able to get enough information to have a place to start, but Maria's captor has been careful with his electronics, making it difficult to find the little girl.

This episode is regarded as one of the best of the entire show, and it's not hard to see why. Even knowing the outcome, the episode is able to keep viewers in distress the entire time. While the writers used a convenient trick of having Maria repeat a rhyme for the officers to have a conversation and then Benson repeating back some phrases to convince Maria she was listening, the episode is still able to keep the suspense high.

The episode was rated 8.16 from 280 votes.

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit - S26E8

#2 - Cornered (Season 26 - Episode 8)

Advertisement

In the intense episode "Cornered" of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Carisi finds himself in a high-stakes situation, working to protect two women held hostage by a violent thief amidst a tense standoff with the police. The tension escalates as Benson and Rollins come up with a risky plan to ensure the safety of everyone involved. This emotional roller coaster of an episode is a must-watch for fans of the show.

Viewers are in for a gripping ride as the SVU team navigates through unfamiliar territory in "Cornered." The episode deviates from the usual SVU storyline, offering a fresh and thrilling plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The stellar acting from the cast brings this harrowing hostage negotiation to life, leaving a lasting impact on both the characters and the audience. Don't miss out on the intense drama and nail-biting moments this episode has to offer.

While some viewers found "Cornered" to be a realistic portrayal of the complexities of hostage situations, others questioned certain decisions made in the episode. Despite differing opinions, the overarching consensus remains that the performances were top-notch, drawing viewers into the heart-wrenching struggles faced by the characters. The emotional depth and rawness of the storyline make "Cornered" a standout episode in the SVU series, showcasing the team's unwavering determination to navigate through challenging circumstances for the greater good.

The episode was rated 8.18 from 57 votes.

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit - S14E24

#1 - Her Negotiation (Season 14 - Episode 24)

In the season finale of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, the detectives are tasked with uncovering the identity of a man arrested for indecent exposure in the park. As they investigate further, they uncover a shocking theory that leaves them stunned. This thrilling episode filled with suspense and intrigue is sure to leave viewers on the edge of their seats.

From the start, the detectives are determined to track down the perpetrator and get to the bottom of the case. With their experience and dedication to justice, they are able to uncover the truth behind the man's identity and the shocking theory that comes with it. This intense episode is sure to keep viewers engaged and gripped until the very end.

The season finale of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit is truly an exceptional episode. With its suspenseful plot and thrilling plot twists, it is sure to captivate viewers and have them hooked until the very end. It is no wonder that it has been hailed as one of the best season finales of the show.

The episode was rated 8.44 from 271 votes.

Latest articles

Search for TV shows...

About Series with Sophie

Welcome to our community!

We are a community of women who are passionate about our favorite series and want to share that passion with others.

Our mission is to create a space where women can discover new content, connect with like-minded individuals, and engage in meaningful discussions about the series we love.

We believe that everyone should have access to reliable and trustworthy information about their favorite shows, and we strive to be the premier destination for women seeking that information. Whether you're looking for recaps, fan theories, or just want to connect with other fans, we've got you covered.

So join us and be a part of our growing community of series enthusiasts!