Filmed on location in New York, the drama showcases the sometimes-complex process of determining guilt or innocence, while lives hang in the balance. Often inspired by the latest headlines, the plots highlight legal, ethical or personal dilemmas to which people can relate.

	S. Epatha Merkerson	…	Anita Van Buren / … (391 episodes, 1991-2010)
	Sam Waterston	…	Jack McCoy (368 episodes, 1994-2010)
	Jerry Orbach	…	Lennie Briscoe / … (274 episodes, 1991-2004)
	Steven Hill	…	Adam Schiff (229 episodes, 1990-2000)
	Jesse L. Martin	…	Ed Green (198 episodes, 1999-2008)