| Law & Order | |
|
| |
| Alternate Title(s) | Law & Order: London L&O : UK L&O: London |
| Format | Crime Drama Police procedural |
| Picture Format | 480i (SDTV), 1080i (HDTV) |
| Running Time | 40–45 minutes |
| Created by | Dick Wolf |
| Starring | See below |
| Narrated By | Robert Glenister |
| Opening Theme | by Andy Price |
| Country of origin | United Kingdom |
| Language | English |
| Original channel | ITV |
| Original run | February 23, 2009 |
| Finale | June 11, 2014 |
| No. of seasons | 8 |
| No. of episodes | 53 (As of present) |
| List of episodes | Law & Order: UK episodes |
| IMDB profile | Law & Order: UK |
| TV.com summary | Law & Order: UK |
| related shows | Law & Order franchise |
- "In the criminal justice system, the people are represented by two separate, yet equally important groups: the police who investigate crime, and the Crown Prosecutors who prosecute the offenders. These are their stories."
Law & Order: UK (original working title Law & Order: London) is a British television drama based on the original Law & Order - each episode is based on an original script from that show with suitable changes for the English legal system, for example, the lack of felony murder and on occasion more major changes to the storyline. The "Law" is the fictional 'Central London Police' (although dialogue frequently refers to the Metropolitan Police) and the "Order" is the Crown Prosecution Service.
The series airs on ITV and is produced by the independent production company Kudos. Fifty-three episodes have aired, with the final episode of Series 8 and the series airing on June 11, 2014.
On June 4, 2014, ITV announced that the show would be "rested" after Bradley Walsh chose to leave the show and "Repeat to Fade" would be the final episode for the "foreseeable future".
Format[]
Law & Order: UK episodes are typically divided into two distinct parts, marked by a transition at the halfway point. The first part focuses on police and investigative work, while the second part explores the legal and courtroom proceedings. The show gives minimal attention to the characters' backstories or personal lives, maintaining a primary focus on their involvement in the cases presented in each episode.
The Police Portion (Law)[]
For most of Law & Order's run, episodes open with the discovery of a crime, usually a murder. These openings often depict a slice of everyday life, interrupted by civilians stumbling upon the crime or, occasionally, witnessing it. In earlier seasons, crimes were more commonly discovered by uniformed officers on patrol. In later seasons, the cold open sometimes featured a montage of the victim's final moments.
The police are represented by a fictionalised unit of the Metropolitan Police Service. While the show primarily focuses on homicide cases, it also occasionally covers other crimes such as kidnappings, sexual offences, and fraud. In reality, these cases would typically be handled by specialised units.
Viewers are introduced to two detectives: a senior detective (usually a Detective Chief Inspector or Detective Inspector) and a junior detective (often a Detective Sergeant or Detective Constable). They report to their superior officer, often a Detective Superintendent. At the crime scene, they are briefed by the first attending officer or a member of the forensic team. During their initial examination, they begin to form theories and often exchange witty remarks before the opening credits roll.
Investigations usually begin with few or no strong leads. Detectives must often identify the victim and follow several dead ends before locating a viable suspect. Their work involves interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence with the assistance of Crime Scene Investigators (CSIs), and liaising with the pathologist's office. CSIs use tools and techniques to gather fingerprints, cast impressions, trace bullet trajectories, and uncover otherwise invisible evidence. They are trained to work in hazardous environments if necessary.
The pathologist collects the body from the scene and determines the cause and manner of death through a post-mortem examination. The detectives use this information to learn about the victim's identity, time of death, and potential leads. Once the victim is identified, detectives notify their next of kin and gather details about the victim's life, relationships, and potential enemies.
Detectives continue their work by interviewing witnesses and suspects, tracing the victim’s last movements, and, in modern episodes, using technology such as CCTV, ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition), and mobile phone tracking. They may also consult with specialised units, such as the Flying Squad for armed robbery or SOCA (now the National Crime Agency) for organised crime. Informants might also be used to gather intelligence.
Evidence is submitted to forensic laboratories for analysis, such as fingerprints, DNA, and ballistics. Background checks on victims and suspects provide further context. Occasionally, criminal psychologists are consulted to offer insights into offender profiles. Throughout the investigation, detectives keep their commanding officer updated and seek advice on the best course of action.
Once detectives believe they have a strong case, they present it to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), which decides whether there is sufficient evidence to charge the suspect and whether prosecution is in the public interest. If approved, the police execute the arrest, read the suspect their rights, and may pursue them if they resist or flee. Suspects are then interviewed under caution, either confessing, requesting a solicitor, or remaining silent.
The Trial Portion (Order)[]
The legal portion of the show centres on the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), represented by a Crown Prosecutor (CP) and a Senior Crown Prosecutor (SCP). Unlike many legal dramas, Law & Order presents courtroom proceedings from the prosecution's perspective, as they work to prove the defendant’s guilt. Prosecutors may consult with their supervisors or colleagues, particularly in cases involving complex legal or political considerations.
Prosecution typically begins in the Magistrates’ Court, where the accused enters a plea (usually "not guilty") and the magistrate decides whether the case should proceed to the Crown Court for trial. The magistrate may also determine whether the defendant is granted bail or remanded in custody.
Occasionally, prosecutors are involved earlier in the police investigation, advising on legal matters such as the strength of evidence or the necessity of search warrants. They may also negotiate early plea deals if the suspect is willing to cooperate.
If the case proceeds, prosecutors prepare for trial by reviewing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and coordinating with the police. In more complex cases, they may instruct a barrister to represent the Crown in court. While legal research and witness preparation are central to their work, prosecutors may also engage in further investigation, though this is less common than in other jurisdictions.
Pretrial hearings in the Crown Court address issues such as the admissibility of evidence and legal motions from the defence. Defence barristers may seek to exclude evidence, citing breaches of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE) or other procedural grounds. These hearings often set the stage for courtroom drama.
The trial begins with opening statements from the prosecution and defence. Evidence is presented through witness testimony and exhibits, with cross-examinations challenging the credibility of each side's case. Witnesses may include civilians, experts (such as forensic scientists or psychologists), and police officers involved in the investigation.
Courtroom scenes often feature objections and rulings, with barristers citing legal precedent to support their arguments. Judges play a prominent role in managing the trial, providing instructions to the jury, and ensuring legal procedures are followed.
Some episodes explore moral and ethical debates, such as assisted dying, self-defence, and police use of force. Defence strategies might involve diminished responsibility, insanity pleas, or claims of entrapment. These arguments often add complexity and depth to the legal proceedings.
Closing arguments precede the jury’s deliberation and verdict. If found guilty, defendants are sentenced according to guidelines set by the Sentencing Council, often involving imprisonment. If acquitted, they are released and may thank their solicitor or barrister. The reactions of victims' families and the prosecution are shown, highlighting the emotional stakes of the case.
Episodes often conclude with prosecutors reflecting on the case’s outcome, the moral questions raised, or the justice system’s imperfections. Occasionally, the final verdict is left ambiguous, allowing viewers to draw their own conclusions.
- For a list of episodes, see Law & Order: UK episodes
Main Cast[]
Police Characters[]
The following characters are the police who investigate crime.
| Image | Actor | Character | In show |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bradley Walsh | Metropolitan Police Criminal Investigation Department (C.I.D.), Murder Investigation Unit (M.I.U.) Senior Detective Sergeant (D.S.) Ronald "Ronnie" Brooks |
Series 1-8 |
|
Jamie Bamber | Metropolitan Police Criminal Investigation Department (C.I.D.), Murder Investigation Unit (M.I.U.) Junior Detective Sergeant (D.S.) Matthew "Matt" Devlin |
Series 1-5 |
|
Harriet Walter | Metropolitan Police Criminal Investigation Department (C.I.D.), Murder Investigation Unit (M.I.U.) Detective Inspector (D.I.) Natalie Chandler |
Series 1-6 |
|
Paul Nicholls | Metropolitan Police Criminal Investigation Department (C.I.D.), Murder Investigation Unit (M.I.U.) Junior Detective Sergeant (D.S.) Samuel "Sam" Casey |
Series 6-7 |
|
Ben Bailey Smith | Metropolitan Police Criminal Investigation Department (C.I.D.), Murder Investigation Unit (M.I.U.) Junior Detective Sergeant (D.S.) Joseph "Joe" Hawkins |
Series 8 |
|
Paterson Joseph | Metropolitan Police Criminal Investigation Department (C.I.D.), Murder Investigation Unit (M.I.U.) Detective Inspector (D.I.) Wesley "Wes" Layton |
Series 7-8 |
|
Sharon Small | Metropolitan Police Criminal Investigation Department (C.I.D.), Murder Investigation Unit (M.I.U.) Detective Inspector (D.I.) Elisabeth Flynn |
Series 8 |
Crown Prosecution Characters[]
The following characters are the Crown Prosecutor's who prosecute the offenders.
| Image | Actor | Character | In show |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Ben Daniels | Crown Prosecution Service (C.P.S.), Senior Crown Prosecutor James Steel |
Series 1-4 |
|
Freema Agyeman | Crown Prosecution Service (C.P.S.), Junior Crown Prosecutor Alesha Phillips |
Series 1-6 |
|
Bill Paterson | Crown Prosecution Service (C.P.S.), Director of Crown Prosecution Service George Castle |
Series 1-4 |
|
Dominic Rowan | Crown Prosecution Service (C.P.S.), Senior Crown Prosecutor Jacob "Jake" Thorne |
Series 5-8 |
|
Peter Davison | Crown Prosecution Service (C.P.S.), Director of London Crown Prosecution Service Henry Sharpe |
Series 5-8 |
|
Georgia Taylor | Crown Prosecution Service (C.P.S.), Junior Crown Prosecutor Katherine "Kate" Barker |
Series 7-8 |
Recurring Guest Stars[]
| Actor | Character | First episode | Last episode | Number of appearances |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robert Glenister | Opening Announcer / Narrator | "Care" (Series 1) |
"Repeat to Fade" (Series 8) |
53 |
| Jessica Gunning | Computer Records and Researcher Angela |
"Vice" (Series 1) |
"Customs" (Series 8) |
29 |
| Adelayo Adedayo | Computer Records and Researcher Kayla |
"Flaw" (Series 8) |
"Repeat to Fade" (Series 8) |
5 |
| Nicola Sanderson | Scenes of Crime Officer (SOCO) Joy Ackroyd |
"Vice" (Series 1) |
"Bad Romance" (Series 8) |
19 |
| Alexander Perkins | Scenes of Crime Officer (SOCO) Pete |
"Care" (Series 1) |
"Hard Stop" (Series 8) |
14 |
| Tariq Jordan | Forensic Technician Teddy | "Vice" (Series 1) |
"Crush" (Series 5) |
9 |
| Nicholas Blane | Coroner/Pathologist Oswald Spear | "Care" (Series 1) |
"Repeat to Fade" (Series 8) |
5 |
| Hazel Ellerby | Coroner/Pathologist Heather | "Hounded" (Series 3) |
"Duty of Care" (Series 4) |
2 |
| Adjoa Andoh | Coroner/Pathologist Lilly | "Crush" (Series 5) |
"Repeat to Fade" (Series 8) |
8 |
| Annabel Mullion | Coroner/Pathologist Eleanor | "Intent" (Series 5) |
"Customs" (Series 8) |
4 |
| Nimmy March | Psychiatrist/Psychologist Doctor Elizabeth Rawls |
"Unloved" (Series 1) |
"Bad Romance" (Series 8) |
2 |
| George Anton | Psychiatrist/Psychologist Doctor Roddy Armitage |
"Defence" (Series 3) |
"Trial" (Series 6) |
6 |
| Fraser James | Children's Psychiatrist/Psychologist Doctor Toby Marsh |
"Broken" (Series 3) |
"Customs" (Series 8) |
5 |
| Patrick Malahide | Defense Barrister Robert Ridley QC | "Care" (Series 1) |
"Confession" (Series 3) |
3 |
| Lesley Manville | Defense Barrister Phyllis Gladstone | "Vice" (Series 1) |
"Tick Tock" (Series 5) |
3 |
| Louise Howells | Defense Barrister Anna Shorofsky | "Care" (Series 1) |
"Samaritan" (Series 2) |
2 |
| Dervla Kirwan | Defense Barrister Beatrice McArdle | "Unloved" (Series 1) |
"Hidden" (Series 2) |
2 |
| Colin Salmon | Defense Barrister Doug Greer | "Buried" (Series 1) |
"Survivor's Guilt" (Series 6) |
3 |
| Charles Kay | Defense Barrister St John Artemis | "Paradise" (Series 1) |
"Sacrifice" (Series 2) |
2 |
| Eddie Marsan | Defense Barrister Jason Peters | "Love and Loss" (Series 2) |
"Help" (Series 4) |
2 |
| Anna Chancellor | Defense Barrister Evelyn Wyndham | "Honour Bound" (Series 2) |
"Anonymous" (Series 3) |
2 |
| Gillian McCutcheon | City of London Crown Court Judge/Lady Justice Margaret Blake |
"Care" (Series 1) |
"Dependent" (Series 7) |
6 |
| Paul Darrow | City of London Crown Court Judge/Lord Justice Prentice |
"Unsafe" (Series 1) |
"I Predict A Riot" (Series 8) |
6 |
| Cyril Nri | City of London Crown Court Judge/Lord Justice DeMarco |
"Unloved" (Series 1) |
"Hidden" (Series 2) |
2 |
| John Rowe | City of London Crown Court Judge/Lord Justice Silverton |
"Alesha" (Series 1) |
"Hidden" (Series 2) |
2 |
| Crispin Redman | City of London Crown Court Judge/Lord Justice Rory Richards |
"Hounded" (Series 3) |
"Dawn Till Dusk" (Series 6) |
5 |
| Ken Drury | City of London Crown Court Judge/Lord Justice Pedotti |
"Broken" (Series 3) |
"Shaken" (Series 4) |
2 |
| Timothy Davies | City of London Crown Court Judge/Lord Justice Peterson |
"Confession" (Series 3) |
"Crush" (Series 5) |
2 |
| Prue Clarke | City of London Crown Court Judge/Lady Justice Blythe |
"Survivor" (Series 3) |
"ID" (Series 4) |
2 |
| Isla Blair | Director of Public Prosecutions Carla Hopley |
"Broken" (Series 3) |
"ID" (Series 4) |
2 |
| Pete Noakes | Clerk of the Court | "Survivor" (Series 3) |
"Intent" (Series 5) |
6 |
Differences Between UK and Original Show[]
- The title cards and fonts use a different style from the US Law & Order.
- Instead of using the original theme by Mike Post or a remix, the show uses a new theme composed by Andy Price.
- The episodes in the UK version incorporate elements of English law. The episodes also closely resemble what one would expect from the English legal system and British culture in general.
- The opening monologue in the UK version uses the term crown prosecutors instead of district attorneys to describe the authorities who prosecute the offenders.
- The caption cards are displayed in the British date format and add the first part of the postcode for the location e.g. Friday 7th February Bow Street Police Station WC2.
- Many cases are changed from shootings to stabbings or fatal beatings due to the tough British firearms laws that prohibit private possession of handguns and heavily restrict possession of rifles or shotguns (although some episodes still feature shootings).
- During the arrests, the police in the UK version usually say "(name of suspect), I'm arresting you on suspicion of (offence). You do not have to say anything. But, it may harm your defence if you do not mention when questioned something which you later rely on in court. Anything you do say may be given in evidence." This is known in English law as a police caution. This is in contrast to the US version where the arresting officers say "(name of suspect), you're under arrest for (offence). You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law." This is known as Miranda rights or Miranda warning.
- In the UK version, a monetary bond is not always required for bail if it is offered to the defendant. Instead, the judge will outline further conditions which are not featured in the US version (e.g. daily reporting to local police).
- The oath that witnesses take is slightly different. In the English system/UK version of the show the witness reads aloud a card which says "I swear by Almighty God that the evidence I shall give shall be the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth." In the US, the sheriff will ask the witness to raise his or her right hand and will ask the witness if he/she swears to tell "the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth so help you God?" The witness then responds by saying, "I do."
- Instead of "your honour", the prosecutors refer to the judge as "my lord" or "my lady" during the proceedings.
- The court's physical arrangement also closely resembles English courtrooms. For instance, the defendant is placed in a docket far apart from his/her barristers (in US courts, the defendant and defence attorneys sit together).
- The barristers in the UK version wear a black toga with a wig when the trial is in session. In the US version, both counsels usually wear normal business clothes.
- The sentences for murder and manslaughter charges in the UK are different from their counterparts in the US. For instance, prosecutors in the UK version of the show do not offer the death penalty (though in some episodes, quick debates about reinstating it happen informally).
- Given that the UK version features adaptations of selected US episodes, it is unknown if Law & Order: UK takes place in the same universe or story arc as the American Law & Order.
- Although the UK episodes are adaptations of selected US episodes, some UK episodes and their US counterparts' core storylines are not completely parallel as some of them may differ in focus, relationship of parties to each other, and/or outcome.
- As the UK version has premiered many years after the US version, technological advances (especially laptops and mobile phones) feature more prominently in the former. For some UK episodes, police gather evidence off of suspects' social media accounts.