Legal Legends: 10 Must-Watch Biopics About Lawyers and Attorneys

Description: This film explores the infamous case of Claus von Bülow, accused of attempting to murder his wife. Attorney Alan Dershowitz takes on the case, leading to one of the most talked-about legal defenses in history.

Fact: Jeremy Irons won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of von Bülow. The film was based on Dershowitz's book about the case.

Description: Based on John Grisham's novel, this film follows a young boy who hires a lawyer, Reggie Love, to protect him after he witnesses a mob-related suicide. It's a thrilling legal drama with a focus on juvenile law.

Fact: The film was one of the first to feature Susan Sarandon in a leading role as a lawyer. The young actor Brad Renfro made his film debut in this movie.

Description: This biopic delves into the life of Larry Flynt, the controversial publisher of Hustler magazine, and his legal battles over freedom of speech. It showcases the tenacity of his lawyer, Alan Isaacman, in defending Flynt's First Amendment rights.

Fact: The film was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Woody Harrelson's portrayal of Flynt. The real Larry Flynt made a cameo appearance in the film.

Description: Directed by Steven Spielberg, this film recounts the 1839 mutiny aboard the slave ship La Amistad and the subsequent legal battle for the Africans' freedom. It features a young lawyer, Roger Sherman Baldwin, who takes on the case.

Fact: The film was shot in various locations, including Rhode Island, where the actual Amistad trial took place. Djimon Hounsou, who played Cinqué, was nominated for a Golden Globe for his role.

Description: This film tells the true story of Jan Schlichtmann, a personal injury lawyer who takes on a case against two major corporations accused of polluting the water supply in Woburn, Massachusetts. It's a gripping tale of legal battles, moral dilemmas, and the high cost of justice.

Fact: The film was based on the non-fiction book by Jonathan Harr. John Travolta, who played Schlichtmann, reportedly lost 30 pounds to portray the lawyer's stress and weight loss during the case.

Description: This film focuses on the true story of Jeffrey Wigand, a former tobacco executive turned whistleblower, and his attorney, Lowell Bergman, who fights to expose the tobacco industry's secrets. It's a tale of courage and legal maneuvering.

Fact: The film was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Al Pacino and Russell Crowe both received nominations for their performances.

Description: Denzel Washington stars as Rubin "Hurricane" Carter, a boxer wrongfully convicted of murder. The film follows his legal battle for freedom, spearheaded by a group of Canadians and his lawyer, Lesra Martin.

Fact: The film was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Washington. The real Rubin Carter served as a consultant on the film.

Description: Julia Roberts stars as Erin Brockovich, a legal assistant who single-handedly builds a case against Pacific Gas and Electric Company for contaminating a town's water supply. This film showcases the power of determination in the legal field.

Fact: Erin Brockovich herself made a cameo in the film. Julia Roberts won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role.

Description: This film features Robert Downey Jr. as a hotshot lawyer who returns home to defend his estranged father, a judge accused of murder. It's a story of family, redemption, and legal battles.

Fact: The film was shot in Massachusetts, with some scenes filmed in a real courtroom. Robert Duvall received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

Description: Matthew McConaughey plays Mickey Haller, a defense attorney who operates out of the back seat of his Lincoln Town Car. The film is based on Michael Connelly's novel and showcases Haller's unique approach to law.

Fact: The film was shot in Los Angeles, where the story is set. McConaughey prepared for the role by shadowing real defense attorneys.