Common Sense Media Review
By Liz Perle
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Dead bodies + courtroom drama = mature teens only.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Law & Order
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 10 parent reviews
Based on 16 kid reviews
Kids say this show is a classic police investigation drama that can be quite intense with its themes, making it suitable for mature teens. Reviews emphasize the presence of graphic content, including violence and discussions of serious topics, but many find it educational and entertaining, particularly for those interested in law and crime.
- mature content
- educational value
- graphic themes
- classic drama
- appropriate age
- binge-worthy
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Part police procedural, part courtroom drama, the long-running series LAW & ORDER gets its story inspiration from real crimes. Detectives Joe Fontana (Dennis Farina) and Edward Green (Jesse L. Martin) lead the criminal investigations. Their supervisor is precinct lieutenant Anita Van Buren (S. Epatha Merkerson). In the second half of the show, the focus shifts to the criminal courts, as Executive Assistant District Attorney Jack McCoy (Sam Waterston) and Assistant District Attorney Alexandra Borgia (Annie Parisse) work within a complicated justice system to prosecute the accused under the guidance of District Attorney Arthur Branch (Fred Thompson).
Is It Any Good?
The show's "ripped from the headlines" mantra makes engaging -- but fictional -- drama. Key to Law & Order's success is its first rate cast. Because of both the subject matter and the details of the courtroom procedures, this is not a show for kids.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Law & Order's "ripped from the headlines" theme. How does a true crime change when it's scripted for television?
How does Law & Order demonstrate communication and teamwork? Why are these important character strengths?
TV Details
- Premiere date : September 13, 1990
- Cast : Dennis Farina , Jesse L. Martin , Sam Waterston
- Network : NBC
- Genre : Drama
- Character Strengths : Communication , Teamwork
- TV rating :
- Award : NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Nominee
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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