Several episodes from the first season are considered definitive for the series:
Season 1 featured the original ensemble, many of whom became franchise staples, though one lead departed after this first year: :
: A harrowing episode dealing with severe child abuse that is cited as one of the show's darkest storylines. Law and Order - Season 1
The first season of premiered on NBC on September 13, 1990, introducing the now-iconic "split" format: half police procedural and half legal drama. Spanning 22 episodes, this season established the "ripped from the headlines" storytelling style and featured a grittier, darker tone than its later years. Main Cast and Characters
: Centered on an abortion clinic bombing, this episode was named by creator Dick Wolf as the "definitive" Law & Order episode. Several episodes from the first season are considered
: The actual pilot, filmed in 1988, features a grittier 16mm look and involves deep city corruption.
: The hard-nosed commanding officer of the precinct. The Prosecution (DA's Office) : Main Cast and Characters : Centered on an
: The pragmatic, politically savvy District Attorney. Notable Episodes