Law & Order

10 Best Episodes of Law & Order - Season 1

Law & Order has become a staple in the world of television, captivating audiences with its gripping storylines and compelling characters. Since its debut in 1990, this crime drama has kept viewers on the edge of their seats with its realistic portrayal of the criminal justice system. With a whopping 25 seasons under its belt, Law & Order has produced some unforgettable episodes that have left a lasting impact on fans.

What sets Law & Order apart is its unique format, which combines police procedural and courtroom drama. Each episode follows a similar structure: a crime is committed, the police investigate, and the district attorney's office prosecutes the suspect. This formula allows for a fast-paced narrative that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.

One of the reasons why Law & Order has stood the test of time is its ability to draw inspiration from real-life events. Many episodes are "ripped from the headlines," meaning they are based on actual crimes that have made headlines in the news. This approach adds a layer of authenticity to the show and allows viewers to see the criminal justice system in action.

Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, Law & Order has something for everyone. From intense interrogations to dramatic courtroom showdowns, this show has consistently delivered high-quality episodes that keep viewers coming back for more. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready to be captivated by the best that Law & Order has to offer.

Written by Sophie and last updated on feb 14, 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 - S1E13

#15 - A Death In The Family (Season 1 - Episode 13)

Police start a citywide manhunt for a man suspected of killing a cop during a rooftop pursuit.

The episode was rated 7.37 from 182 votes.

Law & Order - S1E18

#14 - The Secret Sharers (Season 1 - Episode 18)

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Stone faces a flashy Texas lawyer and a hostile community as he tries to prosecute a young man accused of killing a drug dealer.

The episode was rated 7.38 from 165 votes.

Law & Order - S1E15

#13 - The Torrents Of Greed (1) (Season 1 - Episode 15)

An assault on a candy storeowner leads Stone and Robinette to build a case against a powerful mafia don.

The episode was rated 7.39 from 173 votes.

Law & Order - S1E20

#12 - The Troubles (Season 1 - Episode 20)

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Logan is forced to face his cultural biases when both a Lebanese gunrunner and an Irish terrorist are suspected of killing a drug dealer.

The episode was rated 7.41 from 175 votes.

Law & Order - S1E1

#11 - Prescription For Death (Season 1 - Episode 1)

When a young woman dies during a hectic emergency room night shift, her father claims the hospital was negligent, and an investigation leads the detectives to believe that the doctor treating her may have been drunk on duty.

The episode was rated 7.42 from 424 votes.

Law & Order - S1E21

#10 - Sonata For Solo Organ (Season 1 - Episode 21)

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Stone and Robinette prosecute a surgeon and the wealthy father of a transplant patient for illegally obtaining a kidney.

The episode was rated 7.43 from 170 votes.

Law & Order - S1E17

#9 - Mushrooms (Season 1 - Episode 17)

The accidental shooting of two children by a 14-year-old hired killer leads to a drug dealer and a real estate agent.

The episode was rated 7.45 from 166 votes.

Law & Order - S1E5

#8 - Happily Ever After (Season 1 - Episode 5)

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Greevey and Logan have a hunch that robbery is a cover for the real motive in the death of a millionaire in a parking garage.

The episode was rated 7.47 from 243 votes.

Law & Order - S1E8

#7 - Poison Ivy (Season 1 - Episode 8)

The shooting of a black honors student stirs up racial tensions, especially after it becomes apparent that the cop responsible for the death may have planted a gun on the body to excuse the shooting.

The episode was rated 7.47 from 216 votes.

Law & Order - S1E7

#6 - By Hooker, By Crook (Season 1 - Episode 7)

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When Logan and Greevey investigate how a family man came to be found unconscious in Central Park, they uncover a very high-class call girl operation run by a well-educated socialite.

The episode was rated 7.49 from 215 votes.

Law & Order - S1E14

#5 - The Violence Of Summer (Season 1 - Episode 14)

Greevey and Logan reopen an investigation to help Stone and Robinette build a stronger case against three boys accused of gang-raping a TV reporter.

The episode was rated 7.50 from 170 votes.

Law & Order - S1E22

#4 - The Blue Wall (Season 1 - Episode 22)

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Cragen comes under suspicion when his mentor in the department is investigated for laundering drug money.

The episode was rated 7.58 from 173 votes.

Law & Order - S1E16

#3 - The Torrents Of Greed (2) (Season 1 - Episode 16)

Stone tries to salvage his prosecution of the Masucci family when Beigel faces bribery charges and seems willing to turn against his brother-in-law.

The episode was rated 7.61 from 162 votes.

Law & Order - S1E12

#2 - Life Choice (Season 1 - Episode 12)

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Stone faces pressure from the public and from Schiff as he prepares to prosecute the person accused of bombing an abortion clinic.

The episode was rated 7.65 from 178 votes.

Law & Order - S1E9

#1 - Indifference (Season 1 - Episode 9)

During the investigation into the death of a little girl in a respectable, middle-class family, Greevey and Logan uncover a myriad of family secrets involving abuse, molestation, and murder.

The episode was rated 7.65 from 202 votes.

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