The article reviews the enduring popularity of lawyer series worldwide, highlighting iconic shows like ‘Better Call Saul’ and ‘Law & Order.’ It emphasizes the success of German legal dramas, such as ‘Die Kanzlei,’ ‘Kanzlei Liebling Kreuzberg,’ and ‘Dannie Lowinski,’ noting their unique narratives and awards. It also mentions adaptations of works by Ferdinand von Schirach, the innovative ‘Legal Affairs,’ and ‘Die Heiland – Wir sind Anwalt,’ which features a blind lawyer, showcasing the genre’s diversity and appeal.
Lawyer-themed television series have captivated audiences around the world. Iconic international titles like ‘Better Call Saul’ (2015-2022), ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ (2014-2020), ‘Suits’ (2011-2019), and others have garnered critical acclaim, winning prestigious Golden Globe and Emmy awards. However, the legal drama genre isn’t limited to just Hollywood. Germany has produced its own impressive lineup of lawyer series that have struck a chord with viewers.
‘The Fat Man’ / ‘The Law Firm’
The German legal drama ‘Die Kanzlei’ kicked off its sixth season on October 22 at 8:15 PM on Ersten, featuring 13 brand-new episodes. This series is a continuation of ‘Der Dicke’ (2005-2012). Following the passing of its original star Dieter Pfaff, actress Sabine Postel and Herbert Knaup stepped into leading roles, carrying the show’s legacy forward.
‘Liebling Kreuzberg’ / ‘Kanzlei Liebling Kreuzberg’
A film sequel to the beloved Berlin series ‘Liebling Kreuzberg’ (1986-1998) premiered at the end of September 2024. In this new installment, the characters are connected through personal ties—it’s a granddaughter continuing her grandfather Robert Liebling’s legacy, portrayed for years by the esteemed actor Manfred Krug. This series has received three Grimme Awards, highlighting its exceptional quality.
‘Dannie Lowinski’
The series ‘Dannie Lowinski’ (2010-2014, Sat.1) follows its titular character—a determined lawyer who opens a legal advice center in a shopping mall. Armed with her background as a hairdresser and her legal education, Lowinski passionately advocates for her clients, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. The show has clinched several awards, including the German Comedy Prize.
‘The Co-Sleeper’
In the comedic series ‘Der Beischläfer’ (2020-2021, Amazon Prime Video), Markus Stoll, known for his cabaret work as Harry G, plays Charlie Menzinger, a lay judge in a Munich court. He often finds himself reluctantly partnered with Judge Dr. Julia Kellermann. The show’s future remains uncertain, but its unique premise captured the attention of viewers.
‘Crime’, ‘Guilt’, ‘Faith’
The works of Ferdinand von Schirach, a Munich-based writer and lawyer, have been adapted into film and series formats. Titles like ‘Verbrechen’ (2013), ‘Schuld’ (2015-2019), and ‘Glauben’ (2021), have sparked conversations while receiving acclaim for their thought-provoking themes.
‘Legal Affairs’
In ‘Legal Affairs’ (2021, Das Erste), Lavinia Wilson stars as the fierce and ambitious attorney Leo Roth, who becomes embroiled in a web of political and personal dilemmas. The series tackles pressing societal issues such as media influence, public outrage, and systemic corruption. Whether a continuation of the series is planned remains to be announced.
‘The Saviors: We Are Lawyers’
‘Die Heiland – Wir sind Anwalt’ (since 2018, Das Erste) features a blind lawyer dedicated to her clients’ needs, inspired by real-life Berlin defense attorney Pamela Pabst. The show faced challenges following the untimely death of its leading actress Lisa Martinek but has since seen Christina Athenstädt take on the main role since 2020.
‘A Case for Two’
The revived series ‘Ein Fall für zwei’ debuted in May 2014 on ZDF, showcasing private investigator Leo Oswald, played by Wanja Mues, alongside lawyer Benjamin Hornberg, portrayed by Antoine Monot. This reboot modernizes the classic series that originally aired from 1981 to 2013, featuring beloved detective Josef Matula.
‘Mandate for May’
‘Mandat für Mai,’ the freshly aired series on ZDF as of March 2024, follows the journey of Berlin lawyer Maria ‘Mai’ Gardner, who finds herself in Vogtland due to personal circumstances. The show’s future storyline developments are yet to be confirmed, leaving fans eager for more.