Law & Order
Parents say
Based on 11 reviews
Kids say
Based on 19 reviews
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Law & Order
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that the Law & Order franchise isn't designed for kids. The first half of each hour-long episode focuses on a violent crime, and the second half centers on the ensuing courtroom drama -- which may bore more action-oriented viewers.
Community Reviews
Yes It is OK for Kids is 8 Years Old or Older
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Grandma Let Kids is 9 Years Old or Older
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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: TV-14
- Last updated: October 16, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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Law & Order: SVU
Grisly, sensationalized sex crimes; not meant for kids.
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Law & Order: Criminal Intent
Inside the mind of killers; not for kids.
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Law & Order: UK
Classic L&O stories -- with a British twist.
For kids who love courtroom dramas
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