10 Best ‘Law & Order’ Seasons, Ranked

Law & Order is a groundbreaking procedural drama that spawned several spinoffs, including Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and Law & Order: Organized Crime. Set in New York City, the series uniquely divides each episode into two distinct parts: the first half focuses on NYPD detectives investigating a crime—often inspired by real-life headlines—while the second half shifts to the Manhattan District Attorney’s office as prosecutors prepare for and argue the case in court. Known for its gritty realism and exploration of ethical and legal dilemmas, the show minimizes personal backstories to highlight the complexities of the justice system. Despite its cancelation in 2010 after 20 seasons, Law & Order was revived in 2021.

Few television shows have captivated audiences as consistently as Law & Order. Spanning decades, the series has masterfully blended gripping police investigations with tense courtroom drama, addressing real-world issues through its signature “ripped from the headlines” storytelling. With a revolving cast of compelling detectives and district attorneys, Law & Order has delivered countless unforgettable moments, balancing thought-provoking ethical dilemmas with fast-paced procedural intrigue, building seasons up from intriguing premieres to exciting finales. These are the best seasons of Law & Order, ranked by each season’s storylines, themes, and originality.

10

Season 20 (2009–2010)

Number of Episodes: 23

Detectives Lupo (Jeremy Sisto) and Bernard (Anthony Anderson) investigate war crimes, corporate corruption, and drug cartels. Notable cases include the murder of a late-term abortion doctor, a murder over a reality show offer, and a harrowing terrorist plot. Lieutenant Van Buren’s (S. Epatha Merkerson) cancer and DA Jack McCoy’s (Sam Waterston) election victory bring emotional weight to the season. Courtroom clashes reveal dark secrets, testing Assistant District Attorneys Cutter (Linus Roache) and Rubirosa’s (Alana de la Garza) resolve. The series concludes with a tense race to prevent a school bombing, providing a poignant farewell to the long-running show.

What makes the final season of Law & Order’s first run notable is its combination of complex storytelling, strong character development, and a sense of finality that honors the series’ legacy. The season balances gripping cases with softer, more personal moments, particularly Van Buren’s storyline, which adds emotional resonance and depth. Guest stars, including Elliot Gould, Linsey Vonn, and Benjamin Bratt returning as Detective Curtis, enhance the season’s nostalgic impact. The finale contains an understated yet moving tribute to Van Buren while closing a significant chapter in television history.

9

Season 8 (1997–1998)

Number of Episodes: 24

Detectives Lennie Briscoe (Jerry Orbach) and Rey Curtis tackle crimes ranging from thrill killings and a drive-by shooting to cases involving HIV transmission and mob violence. Prosecutors McCoy and Ross (Carey Lowell) face controversial legal defenses and political pressures, including cases involving jury nullification and dissociative states. Curtis grapples with his wife’s multiple sclerosis, while Briscoe endures personal tragedy with the death of his daughter. The season concludes with ADA Ross resigning to focus on her family, while DA Adam Schiff’s (Steven Hill) re-election campaign faces challenges.

Season 8 sharply explores justice, morality and human psychology. The debut of J.K. Simmons as Dr. Emil Skoda brings an added layer to the series, with his psychiatric insights unraveling complex criminal motives. A crossover episode with Homicide: Life on the Street offers a thrilling collaboration that enhances the season’s intrigue. With powerful character-driven moments and provocative dilemmas throughout, Season 8 remains a highlight of the series.

8

Season 17 (2006–2007)

Number of Episodes: 22

Season 17 of Law & Order introduces new dynamics and explores high-stakes, timely cases that push the boundaries of justice and morality. Detective Ed Green (Jesse L. Martin) gains a new partner, Nina Cassady (Milena Govich), as they investigate cases involving celebrity scandals, political controversies, terrorism, and violent crimes. Storylines tackle media sensationalism, human trafficking, complicated adoption, and debates around stem-cell research. The legal team, led by McCoy and newly introduced ADA Connie Rubirosa, faces mounting moral and political pressures under intense public scrutiny. Significant changes include the departure of DA Arthur Branch (Fred Dalton Thompson), Cassady’s eventual exit, and the return of familiar faces, signaling a shift in the series’ evolution.

Season 17 willingly addresses timely topics like discrimination against the LGBTQ+, delivering some of the series’ most provocative and engaging storytelling. The introduction of ADA Rubirosa reinvigorates the team with her sharp intellect and nuanced performance, complementing McCoy’s seasoned approach. While Detective Cassady’s presence as the first female partner brings a fresh dynamic, her polarizing portrayal and clashes with Van Buren create mixed results. The show’s exploration of ethical dilemmas and legal complexities in great episodes like “Deadlock,” makes Season 17 a memorable part of the series.

7

Season 14 (2003–2004)

Number of Episodes: 24

Season 14 of Law & Order tackles a diverse range of morally complex and emotionally charged cases, from serial killers and identity theft to political scandals and war-related crimes. McCoy and his team face intense ethical dilemmas, including attorney-client privilege protecting a killer and bioterrorism threats. The season explores pressing societal issues such as gay adoption rights and Holocaust trials, while cases involving corporate greed and organized crime add depth. Most notably, this season marks the farewell of Detective Briscoe, concluding a beloved era in the series.

What makes Season 14 great is its ability to combine procedural drama with emotional resonance. The premiere episode introduces one of the show’s most chilling villains, setting the tone for a season filled with tension and moral ambiguity. Episodes like the case of two women conspiring to murder each other’s husbands showcase the show’s ability to dive into complex human psychology. The finale serves as a poignant farewell to Briscoe, with Jerry Orbach delivering a heartfelt and understated performance. This mix of distinguished storytelling, thought-provoking themes, and a touching goodbye makes Season 14 a highlight of Law & Order.

6

Season 4 (1993–1994)

Number of Episodes: 22

Detectives Lennie Briscoe and Mike Logan (Chris Noth) tackle crimes driven by revenge, greed, prejudice, and societal injustice. The cases explore complex themes such as cult influence, genetic predispositions to violence,e and systemic failures in law enforcement. On the prosecutorial side, ADA Ben Stone (Michael Moriarty) and newly introduced ADA Claire Kincaid (Jill Hennessy) face difficult ethical dilemmas involving brainwashing, child abuse, and racial tensions. Notable episodes address vigilante justice and media exploitation, while the season concludes with Stone’s resignation as he confronts his moral limits, marking a pivotal moment in the series.

Season 4 is a turning point for Law & Order, marked by dynamic storytelling and the introduction of two groundbreaking characters: Lieutenant Anita Van Buren and ADA Kincaid. Their presence brings in a new perspective as well as greater inclusivity to the show. The season delivers some of the show’s most intriguing cases, such as a controversial defense claiming a genetic predisposition to violence and, more personally, Kincaid’s moral reckoning. Stone’s exit and Kincaid’s emergence elevate the emotional stakes. With its bold themes and impactful storytelling, Season 4 remains one of the most remarkable chapters in the series.

5

Season 18 (2008)

Number of Episodes: 18

Season 18 of Law & Order ushers in significant changes with the introduction of Detective Cyrus Lupo and Executive ADA Michael Cutter, alongside shifting team dynamics. The season features high-stakes investigations involving kidnappings during a citywide blackout, immigration riots, corporate corruption and dog-fighting rings. The departure of Detective Green after a shooting incident provides a dramatic turning point, leading to Kevin Bernard joining as Lupo’s new partner. Meanwhile, courtroom battles grow more intense as Cutter’s sharp legal tactics and McCoy’s new role as District Attorney are tested, particularly in a prostitution-ring case that threatens McCoy’s career.

Season 18 stands out for its refreshing character evolution and its exploration of timely, socially charged themes. The introduction of Detective Lupo injects energy into the investigative team, while Green’s gambling addiction and dignified exit offer one of Law & Order‘s most poignant character send-offs. McCoy’s promotion to DA revitalizes the show’s power dynamics, as Cutter brings a bold, unorthodox approach to prosecutions. Notable cases, such as political conspiracies and racial conflicts, showcase the series’ ability to tackle contemporary issues with nuance. Despite Green’s exit, Season 18 remains a strong entry in the series, mixing character-driven storytelling with provocative cases.

4

Season 6 (1995–1996)

Number of Episodes: 23

Season 6 of Law & Order introduces Detective Rey Curtis (Benjamin Bratt) as Lennie Briscoe’s new partner, infusing the series with fresh energy while maintaining its procedural roots. The season tackles emotional and complex cases, addressing the death penalty, family conflicts and systemic racial and gender issues. Standout investigations include a subway gas attack that leads to a Homicide: Life on the Street crossover and a mother accused of kidnapping her biological child. The season concludes with “Aftershock,” a groundbreaking finale where the execution of a criminal profoundly impacts Briscoe, Curtis, McCoy and ADA Kincaid, ending in Kincaid’s tragic death in a car accident.

What sets Season 6 apart is its willingness to experiment with storytelling and explore its characters’ emotional depths. The introduction of Curtis brings a new dynamic to the show, while Kincaid and McCoy’s partnership reaches its peak with their nuanced handling of morally complex cases. The finale offers a rare look into the personal struggles of the main characters. Kincaid’s shocking death remains one of the most emotional moments in the series, delivering an agonizing conclusion to a season already brimming with impactful drama. This blend of procedural excellence and character-driven storytelling solidifies Season 6 as one of Law & Order’s top-notch seasons.

3

Season 10 (1999–2000)

Number of Episodes: 24

Season 10 of Law & Order brings fresh energy to the series with the introduction of Detective Green, who partners seamlessly with Lennie Briscoe. The season explores a range of hard-hitting and morally complex themes, including gun violence, childhood sociopathy and systemic racial injustice. High-stakes cases include an insurance scam exploiting Holocaust victims, a helicopter bombing and crimes committed by a politically powerful family in a crossover with Law & Order: SVU. Ethical challenges arise for McCoy as he confronts his past colleagues and grapples with questionable convictions. The season concludes with the departure of DA Schiff as he reflects on international human rights violations and his decades of service.

As one of Law & Order’s strongest seasons, Season 10 unflinchingly examines complex moral questions and chillingly memorable cases. The introduction of Detective Green brings a fresh dynamic to the show, complementing Briscoe’s seasoned experience with Green’s cool professionalism. The season is at its most haunting, with a remorseless child killer exposing deep flaws in the justice system. Thought-provoking cases, such as prosecuting individuals with diminished responsibility, challenge the characters and make for intriguing intellectual exercises for viewers. Coupled with Schiff’s poignant farewell, Season 10 delivers a near-perfect balance of procedural drama and emotional depth.

2

Season 5 (1994–1995)

Number of Episodes: 23

Season 5 of Law & Order introduces Executive Assistant DA Jack McCoy, whose sharp intellect and fiery determination bring a fresh intensity to the courtroom. The season delves into morally complex and emotional cases, tackling issues such as medical ethics, domestic abuse and family secrets. Social and political themes take center stage, including anti-abortion extremism, class divides and hate crimes. Character-driven storylines deepen the season, with highlights such as Lt. Van Buren’s controversial shooting of a teenager and Detective Logan’s confrontation with his past. The season concludes with Logan’s emotional departure after a turbulent murder case, marking a significant shift for the series.

Season 5 stands as a pivotal era in Law & Order, defined by the arrival of Jack McCoy, whose dynamic presence reinvigorates the legal team and sets a new standard for courtroom drama. McCoy’s chemistry with ADA Kincaid adds complexity and intrigue to the narrative, while the cases push both detectives and prosecutors into ethically gray areas. The season excels with distinguished guest performances and unforgettable storylines like Van Buren’s moral reckoning. Mixing procedural storytelling with rich character development and timely social commentary, Season 5 is one of the series’ strongest and most remarkable seasons.

1

Season 13 (2002–2003)

Number of Episodes: 24

Season 13 of Law & Order delivers a powerful mix of investigations and provocative courtroom drama, tackling timely social issues. The season dives into cases involving terrorism, a post-9/11 murder cover-up, capital punishment and religious conflict, while also addressing vigilantism, white supremacy, medical malpractice and corporate corruption. Personal stakes rise as Detective Lennie Briscoe grapples with the emotional aftermath of his daughter’s death, adding depth to his character. The arrival of DA Arthur Branch introduces a fresh, politically savvy perspective that clashes with McCoy’s more aggressive legal approach. From psychics and snipers to hitmen and scandals, the season delivers a diverse range of compelling cases.

Season 13 shows Law & Order at its finest, with its combination of strong character arcs, socially relevant cases and masterful storytelling. The season showcases the exceptional partnership of Briscoe and Green, whose sharp instincts and teamwork solidify their status as one of television’s greatest detective duos. The introduction of Arthur Branch injects new energy into the prosecution team, combining McCoy’s fiery resolve with Branch’s pragmatic and commanding presence. The season excels at tackling complex themes such as anti-Muslim bias and militia violence while maintaining its signature blend of tension, wit and moral ambiguity.

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