If you enjoyed the gripping courtroom drama of Public Defender (1954), you'll love these 10 similar movies and shows. This article explores titles that capture the same legal tension, moral dilemmas, and compelling storytelling that made Public Defender a classic. Whether you're a fan of vintage legal thrillers or modern courtroom battles, this list has something for you.

Perry Mason (1957)
Description: A courtroom drama series that follows a defense attorney who often takes on seemingly hopeless cases, using sharp legal tactics and investigative skills to uncover the truth.
Fact: The show was based on characters created by Erle Stanley Gardner and originally aired as a radio drama before transitioning to television.


Matlock (1986)
Description: Centers on a shrewd defense attorney known for his folksy charm and ability to dismantle prosecution cases through meticulous cross-examination and uncovering hidden evidence.
Fact: Andy Griffith, who played Matlock, was initially reluctant to take on another TV role after 'The Andy Griffith Show' but was convinced by the character's depth.


The Practice (1997)
Description: A legal drama that delves into the ethical dilemmas and personal struggles of defense attorneys working in a small Boston law firm, often defending unpopular clients.
Fact: The show won multiple Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Drama Series, and spawned the spin-off 'Boston Legal.'


Boston Legal (2004)
Description: A legal dramedy that blends courtroom battles with witty dialogue, focusing on eccentric but brilliant defense attorneys who take on morally complex cases.
Fact: The show was known for its unorthodox closing arguments, often delivered directly to the camera, breaking the fourth wall.


Damages (2007)
Description: A legal thriller that weaves intricate plots and moral ambiguity, following a ruthless lawyer and her protégée as they navigate high-profile cases with personal stakes.
Fact: The series was notable for its non-linear storytelling, often revealing key plot points out of chronological order.


The Good Wife (2009)
Description: Follows a woman who returns to her legal career after a scandal involving her politician husband, navigating high-stakes cases and office politics at a prestigious law firm.
Fact: The series was praised for its strong female lead and realistic portrayal of legal and personal challenges faced by women in law.


Suits (2011)
Description: A fast-paced legal drama set in a high-powered New York law firm, blending sharp dialogue, corporate intrigue, and courtroom battles.
Fact: The show gained a massive following in reruns on Netflix, long after its original run ended.


How to Get Away with Murder (2014)
Description: A gripping legal thriller that combines courtroom drama with murder mysteries, following a brilliant but morally ambiguous defense attorney and her students.
Fact: The series was created by Peter Nowalk and produced by Shonda Rhimes, known for her work on 'Grey's Anatomy' and 'Scandal.'


Goliath (2016)
Description: A legal drama about a disgraced lawyer who redeems himself by taking on powerful corporations and corrupt systems in high-stakes cases.
Fact: The show was inspired by real-life legal battles against corporate giants, adding a layer of realism to its storytelling.


The Good Fight (2017)
Description: A spin-off that continues to explore legal and political themes, focusing on a diverse group of attorneys tackling contemporary issues in a turbulent world.
Fact: The show was one of the first original series produced for CBS All Access (now Paramount+), marking a shift toward streaming platforms.
