100 Lawyer Movies You MUST Watch At Least Once!

Lawyer movies have long been a staple in cinema, combining intense drama, moral dilemmas, and powerful courtroom battles.

Whether you’re a fan of thrilling legal dramas, courtroom comedies, or gripping crime mysteries, there’s something for everyone in this genre.

Moreover, these films not only entertain but also shed light on complex legal issues. Furthermore, it offers insights into justice, ethics, and the human condition.

100 Lawyer Movies: Your ULTIMATE Checklist!

In this article, I have curated a list of 100 lawyer movies that you must watch at least once. From iconic classics like To Kill a Mockingbird to modern hits like The Lincoln Lawyer, each film on this list brings something unique to the table.

Whether you’re a law student, a legal professional, or just a movie buff, these films will leave you thinking long after the credits roll.

Therefore, without further ado, let’s dive into this selection of the best lawyer movies that promise suspense, drama, and unforgettable performances!

1. 12 Angry Men (1957)

First on the list of the best lawyers is this timeless courtroom drama. 12 Angry Men captures the tense deliberations of 12 jurors deciding a young man’s fate. Packed with gripping dialogue, it’s a lesson in justice and humanity.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Vudu.

2. A Few Good Men (1992)

Secondly, A Few Good Men is a must on the list. Tom Cruise and Jack Nicholson face off in this military courtroom thriller. Famous for “You can’t handle the truth!”, it’s an unforgettable watch.

Watch On: Hulu, Amazon Prime, Apple TV.

3. The Verdict (1982)

In this 1982 blockbuster movie based on law, Paul Newman shines as a struggling lawyer taking on a risky medical malpractice case. It’s raw, emotional, and utterly compelling.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, YouTube Movies.

4. To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)

While not based on law and lawyers specifically, I had to put this one on the list. Based on Harper Lee’s classic, this film tells a moving story of racial injustice and moral courage, starring Gregory Peck as the iconic Atticus Finch.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Vudu, YouTube Movies.

5. The Firm (1993)

Fifth, we have one of my personal favorites. Tom Cruise stars in this legal thriller where a young lawyer uncovers sinister secrets about his law firm. Needless to say, it’s suspenseful and full of twists.

Watch On: Netflix, Amazon Prime, Apple TV.

6. My Cousin Vinny (1992)

If you are in need of a good laugh, this is the one that you need! This hilarious courtroom comedy features Joe Pesci as an unconventional lawyer tackling a murder case. It’s lighthearted, witty, and packed with laughs.

Watch On: Hulu, Amazon Prime, Apple TV.

7. Erin Brockovich (2000)

Can there be any movie were Julia Roberts does not deliver? I don’t think so! In this real-life story of a legal assistant fighting for justice against a polluting corporation, Roberts gives an Oscar-winning performance. It’s inspiring and empowering.

Watch On: Peacock, Amazon Prime, Apple TV.

8. Philadelphia (1993)

Next on the list of the best legal movie, we have Philadelphia. Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington star in this heartfelt drama about a lawyer fighting workplace discrimination after being diagnosed with AIDS. keep your tissues close as it’s a must-watch tearjerker.

Watch On: Hulu, Amazon Prime, Apple TV.

9. The Lincoln Lawyer (2011)

Matthew McConaughey delivers as a slick lawyer defending clients from his car. I simply loved this movie and would do anything to go back in time for a first-time-watch experience. Moreover, this legal thriller keeps you on edge with its smart twists.

Watch On: Netflix, Amazon Prime, Apple TV.

10. A Time to Kill (1996)

If you are searching for a gripping courtroom drama about race and justice, A Time to Kill is a must-watch! Additionally, with stellar performances by Matthew McConaughey and Samuel L. Jackson, this movie is intense, thought-provoking, and powerful.

Watch On: HBO Max, Amazon Prime, YouTube Movies.

11. Legally Blonde (2001)

This movie is probably the first name that comes to our minds when we think of lawyer movies or movies based on lawyers. Elle Woods proves brains and style go hand in hand in this feel-good story of a fashion-savvy student conquering Harvard Law. And for those who have not watched it yet, it’s inspiring and endlessly fun.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Netflix, Apple TV.

12. Primal Fear (1996)

Next on the list, we have Primal Fear. In this movie, Richard Gere shines as a lawyer defending a timid altar boy accused of murder. Furthermore, packed with twists, it’s a courtroom thriller you won’t forget.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Paramount+, Apple TV.

13. The Paper Chase (1973)

Follow Hart, a first-year Harvard Law student navigating intense classes and a tough professor whose daughter he has fallen in love with. If you are trying to watch a simple romantic comedy, this one is a great watch. Additionally, it’s a must-watch for anyone curious about the challenges of law school.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Vudu.

14. The Rainmaker (1997)

Matt Damon stars as Rudy, a rookie lawyer taking on a powerful insurance company. In this movie, we see him helping out a boy who has leukemia and standing against the insurance company that refused to pay for the operation. To say the least, this legal drama is emotional, uplifting, and full of surprises.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Paramount+, YouTube Movies.

15. Anatomy of a Murder (1959)

In this classic courtroom drama, we can see a small-town barrister defending an army officer. Featuring Paul Biegler in a riveting tale of murder, morality, and justice, this movie is a must-watch for James Stewart fans. It’s an old-school gem for legal movie fans.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, YouTube Movies.

16. The Pelican Brief (1993)

If you are in the mood to watch a legal thriller, The Pelican Brief is a great option! In this gripping political-legal drama, Julia Roberts (a lawyer) and Denzel Washington (a reporter) deliver a thrilling performance, It is about a law student uncovering a deadly conspiracy. Additionally, a must-watch for all Pakula fans, this one is intense and suspenseful.

Watch On: Netflix, Amazon Prime, Apple TV.

17. In the Name of the Father (1993)

This one is a heart-wrenching true story of an Irish man wrongfully convicted of terrorism. Daniel Day-Lewis is phenomenal in this movie. Additionally, this biographical crime drama explores justice and perseverance. So, if that is something that you like, it is a great watch!

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Peacock, Apple TV.

18. The Client (1994)

A young boy witnesses a crime and teams up with a fearless lawyer (Susan Sarandon) to survive a dangerous case. If you are in the mood for a thriller, watch this 11-year-old boy navigate the case in this thrilling and emotional fast-paced movie.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, YouTube Movies, Apple TV.

19. Chicago (2002)

This Oscar-winning musical follows two women on trial for murder and the lawyer manipulating the media for their defense. It’s dazzling and darkly humorous.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Hulu, Apple TV.

20. Kramer vs. Kramer (1979)

Want to watch a legal classic? This heartfelt drama about a custody battle between a divorcing couple (Dustin Hoffman and Meryl Streep) is both emotional and powerful. 

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Vudu.

21. The Devil’s Advocate (1997)

Keanu Reeves stars as a rising lawyer in this dark thriller, unraveling secrets about his mentor, played by Al Pacino. A chilling mix of law and supernatural twists.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Hulu.

22. A Time to Kill (1996)

Matthew McConaughey delivers a powerful performance in this intense courtroom drama about justice and racial tensions in the Deep South. It’s gripping and thought-provoking.

Watch On: HBO Max, Amazon Prime, YouTube Movies.

23. Liar Liar (1997)

Jim Carrey brings laughs and heart as a lawyer cursed to tell only the truth for 24 hours. It’s hilarious and surprisingly touching.

Watch On: Peacock, Amazon Prime, Apple TV.

24. The Social Network (2010)

Discover the legal battles behind Facebook’s creation. Jesse Eisenberg shines in this gripping drama about ambition, betrayal, and innovation. A must-watch for tech and law enthusiasts.

Watch On: Netflix, Amazon Prime, Apple TV.

25. The Judge (2014)

Robert Downey Jr. stars as a big-city lawyer returning to defend his estranged father, a respected judge, in a murder trial. Emotional and riveting.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, YouTube Movies.

26. Runaway Jury (2003)

This thriller dives into jury tampering and corruption as John Cusack and Gene Hackman play mind games in a high-stakes trial.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Hulu, Apple TV.

27. A Civil Action (1998)

John Travolta leads a small law firm against a major corporation in this David-vs-Goliath environmental legal drama. Emotional and inspiring.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, YouTube Movies.

28. The Conspirator (2010)

Next on the list of the best law movies is The Conspirator. This historical drama explores the trial following Lincoln’s assassination, with Robin Wright delivering a stellar performance. Additionally, it is a must-watch for history and law enthusiasts.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Hulu.

29. And Justice for All (1979)

Al Pacino gives a fiery performance in this critique of the legal system, asking if justice is ever truly fair. Iconic and unforgettable.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, YouTube Movies.

30. The Children’s Hour (1961)

Audrey Hepburn and Shirley MacLaine face a scandalous legal battle after false accusations tear their school apart. A gripping and emotional classic.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Vudu.

31. Adam’s Rib (1949)

This witty courtroom comedy follows Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn as married lawyers on opposite sides of a case. It’s charming, funny, and timeless.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, YouTube Movies.

32. The Caine Mutiny (1954)

This gripping drama examines loyalty and justice aboard a Navy ship, culminating in a riveting courtroom trial. Humphrey Bogart’s performance is unforgettable.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Vudu.

33. The Good Wife (2009-2016, TV Series)

Follow Alicia Florrick’s transformation from betrayed wife to fierce attorney in this award-winning legal drama. It’s addictive and empowering.

Watch On: Paramount+, Amazon Prime, Hulu.

34. The Great Debaters (2007)

Denzel Washington leads this inspiring true story of a college debate team breaking racial barriers. Furthermore, it’s more about justice and courage than courtrooms but equally powerful.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Hulu, YouTube Movies.

35. The International (2009)

This fast-paced thriller follows Clive Owen and Naomi Watts as they uncover corruption within a global bank. It’s an intense blend of law and action.

Watch On: Netflix, Amazon Prime, Apple TV.

36. A Separation (2011)

This Oscar-winning Iranian drama explores divorce, morality, and cultural conflict through a gripping legal lens. Deeply moving and thought-provoking.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Netflix.

37. The Great Escape (1963)

If you are into historical movies, this one is an excellent option! While it is not a legal drama, this WWII classic features a courtroom-like struggle for freedom as prisoners plan their daring escape. A must-watch for history buffs.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, YouTube Movies.

38. The Insider (1999)

This gripping whistleblower drama stars Al Pacino and Russell Crowe, exposing corporate greed and media ethics. It’s intense and utterly compelling.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Hulu, Apple TV.

39. The In-Laws (1979)

A hilarious crime-comedy where Peter Falk and Alan Arkin stumble into a legal mess involving international smuggling. It’s quirky and entertaining.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Vudu.

40. The Paper (1994)

Michael Keaton stars in this newsroom drama that dives into journalistic ethics, legal dilemmas, and the pressure of breaking news. A thrilling watch.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, YouTube Movies, Apple TV.

41. Witness for the Prosecution (1957)

This Agatha Christie courtroom thriller delivers twists, intrigue, and unforgettable performances by Charles Laughton and Marlene Dietrich. It’s a suspense classic you’ll love unraveling.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, YouTube Movies.

42. The Trial (1962)

Orson Welles adapts Kafka’s dark tale of a man caught in a mysterious legal nightmare. It’s haunting, surreal, and visually stunning.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Vudu.

43. Compulsion (1959)

This gripping crime drama, based on a true case, follows two privileged students accused of murder and their attorney’s battle against the death penalty.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, YouTube Movies, Vudu.

44. Jagged Edge (1985)

A murder mystery meets a legal drama as Glenn Close and Jeff Bridges deliver an intense tale of betrayal, love, and suspenseful courtroom twists.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Hulu.

45. The International (2009)

Clive Owen stars in this legal-action thriller about uncovering corruption in a global bank. Packed with tension and dramatic courtroom-like confrontations.

Watch On: Netflix, Amazon Prime, Apple TV.

46. Pink (2016)

If there is one Bollywood movie that HAS to be on this list of the best courtroom movies, it has to be Pink. This powerful film explores issues of consent, victim-blaming, and gender inequality. It follows the story of three young women who find themselves in a legal battle after a night out. Spine-chilling would be an understatement for this one!

Watch On: Amazon Prime, YouTube Movies.

47. Roman J. Israel, Esq. (2017)

Denzel Washington shines as an idealistic yet unconventional lawyer navigating a moral crossroads. This character-driven drama is inspiring and thought-provoking.

Watch On: Netflix, Amazon Prime, Apple TV.

48. The Mist (2007)

While this one is not your traditional legal movie, this horror-thriller is a great watch for law movie lovers. This one explores societal breakdowns and moral dilemmas that feel like a courtroom of survival. Additionally, it’s hauntingly captivating.

Watch On: Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu.

49. The Firm (1993)

A young lawyer joins a prestigious firm, only to realize it’s a front for a dangerous criminal organization. A thrilling legal drama filled with suspense and betrayal.

Watch On: Amazon Prime Video, Hulu

50. The Lincoln Lawyer (2011)

A charismatic defense attorney takes on a high-profile case that unravels a web of corruption and deceit. A gripping legal thriller with a sharp wit and a moral compass.

Watch On: Netflix

51. Silkwood (1983)

A brave nuclear plant worker exposes corporate negligence and puts her life on the line. A powerful and inspiring true story about courage and justice.

Watch On: HBO Max

52. Amistad (1997)

A historical drama about a group of enslaved Africans who seize control of a slave ship and fight for their freedom in a U.S. courtroom. A powerful and thought-provoking film.

Watch On: Hulu

53. Michael Clayton (2007)

A cynical corporate lawyer finds himself embroiled in a dangerous conspiracy. A dark and suspenseful legal thriller with a stellar performance by George Clooney.

Watch On: HBO Max, Amazon Prime, Hulu, Apple TV

54. The Chamber (1996)

A death row inmate fights for his life with the help of a young lawyer. A moving and emotional drama about the power of hope and the death penalty.

Watch On: Amazon Prime Video

55. The Crucible (1996)

A historical drama set during the Salem witch trials, exploring themes of hysteria, injustice, and the power of faith. A powerful and haunting film.

Watch On: HBO Max

56. The Siege (1998)

A gripping thriller about a terrorist attack on New York City and the ensuing political and social turmoil. A timely and relevant film about the dangers of extremism.

Watch On: Amazon Prime Video, Hulu

57. All the President’s Men (1976)

A classic investigative journalism thriller about the Watergate scandal. A must-watch for anyone interested in politics, journalism, and the pursuit of truth.

Watch On: HBO Max

58. On the Basis of Sex (2018)

A biographical drama about Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s early career as a lawyer and her fight for gender equality. An inspiring and empowering film about the power of perseverance.

Watch On: Hulu

59. North Country (2005)

A powerful drama based on a true story about a woman who fights for justice after facing sexual harassment in a male-dominated mining industry.

Watch On: Hulu

60. High Crimes (2002)

A gripping legal thriller about a military lawyer who must defend her husband, a decorated general, when he’s accused of war crimes.

Watch On: Amazon Prime Video, Hulu

61. The Whistler (1944)

A classic film noir about a corrupt district attorney who’s taken down by a mysterious whistleblower. A thrilling and suspenseful ride.

Watch On: The Criterion Channel

62. Law Abiding Citizen (2009)

A vigilante thriller where a man seeks revenge on the corrupt system that failed to deliver justice. A dark and twisted exploration of the law and its limits.

Watch On: HBO Max

63. The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020)

A historical drama about the trial of seven anti-war activists charged with conspiracy and inciting riots at the 1968 Democratic National Convention. A powerful and timely film.

Watch On: Netflix

64. The Godfather Part II (1974)

An epic crime drama that delves into the complex world of organized crime, family, and power. A masterpiece of filmmaking with unforgettable characters and performances.

Watch On: Paramount+

65. The Whole Truth (2016)

A gripping legal thriller about a young lawyer who defends a wealthy teenager accused of murder. A twisty and turny plot that will keep you guessing.

Watch On: Hulu

66. Dead Man Walking (1995)

A powerful and moving drama about a priest who counsels a death row inmate. A thought-provoking film about the death penalty and the power of redemption.

Watch On: HBO Max

67. The Blackcoat’s Daughter (2015)

A chilling horror film with a supernatural twist, set in a remote college during a harsh winter. A slow-burn psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Watch On: Hulu

68. Inherit the Wind (1960)

A classic courtroom drama based on the Scopes Monkey Trial, exploring the conflict between science and religion. A timeless film about freedom of thought and expression.

Watch On: HBO Max

69. The Night Of (2016, TV series)

A gripping miniseries following a Pakistani-American college student wrongly accused of murder. A tense and thought-provoking exploration of the criminal justice system.

Watch On: HBO Max

70. A Man for All Seasons (1966)

A historical drama about Sir Thomas More, a 16th-century English lawyer who refuses to compromise his beliefs, leading to his tragic downfall.

Watch On: HBO Max

71. Presumed Innocent (1990)

A suspenseful legal thriller about a successful prosecutor who becomes the prime suspect in a murder case. A gripping and morally ambiguous tale.

Watch On: Hulu

72. Rounders (1993)

A captivating film about a talented poker player who gets caught up in the high-stakes world of underground gambling. A thrilling ride with a strong legal undercurrent.

Watch On: Hulu

73. In Her Place (2024)

A French drama about a woman who takes on a high-powered job in a male-dominated legal firm, navigating gender bias and corporate intrigue.

Watch On: Hulu

74. Judgment at Nuremberg (1961)

A powerful historical drama about the trial of Nazi war criminals. A sobering and important film that explores the consequences of war crimes and the importance of justice.

Watch On: HBO Max

75. The Lawyer (1970)

A classic legal drama about a young lawyer who takes on a powerful corporation. A thrilling and suspenseful film that highlights the power of individual courage.

Watch On: Amazon Prime Video

76. Dark Waters (2019)

A true-story legal drama about a corporate lawyer who exposes a major chemical company’s toxic practices. A gripping and important film about environmental justice.

Watch On: Disney+

77. Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998)

A wild and psychedelic journey through the mind of a drug-addled journalist. While not strictly a legal drama, it offers a surreal and darkly humorous take on the American legal system.

Watch On: Hulu

78. Under Suspicion (2000)

A suspenseful thriller about a man who becomes the prime suspect in a murder investigation. A tense and twisty plot that will keep you guessing.

Watch On: Amazon Prime Video

79. Murder in the First (1995)

Kevin Bacon stars as a prisoner who endures harsh conditions, and Christian Slater as his lawyer fighting for justice. This intense drama highlights the flaws in the legal system.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, YouTube Movies.

80. Marshall (2017)

Chadwick Boseman delivers a powerful performance as Thurgood Marshall, the first African-American Supreme Court justice, in this inspiring true story about a landmark case.

Watch On: Amazon Prime, Netflix, Apple TV.

Other Notable Lawyer Movies from Around the World!

Did you think that I ended my list before covering or mentioning all the 100 movies? Absolutely not! If language is not a barrier to discovering the best movies, then this one is for you!

Here are the other movies that are based on law or deal with legal battles:

Movie Name	Year	Country
Jai Bhim	2021	India
The Attorney	2013	Korea
The Client	2011	Korea
Mulk	2021	India
New Trial	2019	Korea
Juror 8	2019	Korea
A Violent Prosecutor	2016	Korea
Section 375	2019	India
Sirf Ek Banda Kaafi Hai	2023	India
Innocence	2018	Korea
Anatomy of a Fall	2023	France
Justice	2017	France
The Accusation	2021	France
Akuma no Bengoshi	2020	Japan
99.9: Criminal Lawyer	2021	Japan
Just Mercy	2019	America
Selma	2014	America
Till	2022	America
Jolly LLB	2013	India
OMG	2012	India

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