From the police cruiser to the courtroom, reality court television and crime investigation dramas dominate the screen, offering gripping tales of justice, legal battles and crime-solving. These are the top 10 best law shows to watch on TV right now, where intense investigations and courtroom confrontations keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Keep an eye on this list as it is updated with the latest and greatest law-related reality TV shows, so you can be sure you’re in the loop. From Judge Judy to The People’s Court, this list will help fans stay up to date on the most popular law shows on TV right now.
Watch Guide Methodology: Using proprietary viewership data, DIRECTV Insider curates lists of the most popular TV shows and movies being watched by real people, in real time, to help you pick the best trending content to watch across networks. Our rolling data collection also allows readers to see how a trending show’s ranking has changed week over week.
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TOP 10 LAW SHOWS TO WATCH
Let’s get started. Here are the trending law reality shows that TV-watchers are enjoying right now, with all the information you need to check them out for yourself.
1. ‘Judge Judy’
↔ vs. Prior Week
Experience the sharp wit and unyielding justice meted out in Judge Judy’s courtroom. With 25 seasons under her belt, Judge Judy Sheindlin rules with an iron fist, settling disputes ranging from neighbor battles and business disagreements to family feuds and so many other unbelievable conflicts. Her no-nonsense demeanor and biting humor add an entertaining layer to this reality courtroom drama.
2. ‘On Patrol: Live’
↔ vs. Prior Week
Experience law enforcement like never before in On Patrol: Live. This unprecedented show provides real-time access to police units during night patrols, capturing authentic interactions and confrontations between law enforcement and the community they serve. The raw, unfiltered nature of this show provides an immersive, adrenaline-filled experience packed with high stakes and even higher levels of drama.
3. ‘Cops’
↔ vs. Prior Week
Cops follow uniformed police officers across various US cities as they carry out their law enforcement duties. Witness the unpredictable situations officers face on the job, from risky car chases and confronting armed criminals to helping civilians in distress, in real time.
4. ‘Hot Bench’
↑ 2 vs. Prior Week
Hot Bench takes court television to a whole new level with its unique and compelling format. Three judges, Tanya Acker, Patricia DiMango and Michael Corriero, deliver justice as they hear cases and later debate the facts amongst themselves in this captivating courtroom series produced by Judge Judy Sheindlin.
5. ‘Judy Justice’
↑ 2 vs. Prior Week
Judy Justice (2021) sees television’s beloved judge, Judy Sheindlin, as she swings her gavel in a brand-new court. Still equipped with her signature razor-sharp wit and no-nonsense attitude, Sheindlin lays down the law once more, offering justice where it’s long overdue. Accompanied by a fresh, energetic team including a law clerk and a stenographer, this new show promises more fiery exchanges and legal drama. Tune in to Judy Justice for the pursuit of truth, high-stakes verdicts and a sneak peek into the workings of Judge Judy’s court.
6. ’48 Hours’
↓ 2 vs. Prior Week
Dive deep into the world of crime and justice with 48 Hours that has been delivering compelling investigative reports since 1988. Experience the thrill of piecing together clues and uncovering hidden truths as each case unravels, guided by the relentless pursuit of seasoned investigators. This engaging docudrama is not just about solving crimes but also stands as a tribute to the resilience of victims involved. Be a part of these thrilling investigations that might just change the way you view the world.
7. ‘Court Cam’
↑ 1 vs. Prior Week
Experience justice from a new perspective with Court Cam, a riveting reality series that pulls back the veil on courtrooms across the country.
Each episode showcases raw footage of shocking and dramatic legal proceedings, captured directly from court camera feeds.
8. ‘The First 48’
↓ 3 vs. Prior Week
The First 48 captures the intense, often heartbreaking reality of homicide detectives’ first 48 hours of investigation. This gripping reality crime series takes viewers on a journey into the very heart of the crime scene, using real-life footage to unravel shocking murder mysteries, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats, piecing together clues until the final revelation.
9. ‘Judge Mathis’
↔ vs. Prior Week
Sit back and witness the tenacious and compassionate court of Judge Mathis. This compelling daytime reality court show features the real-life cases presided over by Judge Greg Mathis, a retired Superior Court Judge of Michigan’s 36th District and renowned civil rights activist.
10. ‘The People’s Court’
↑ 1 vs. Prior Week
Experience raw and intense courtroom drama on The People’s Court. With the stern yet compassionate Judge Marilyn Milian at the helm, witness ordinary people take the stand and fight for justice in this long-standing arbitration-based reality court show.
And there you have it: the top 10 law shows to stream at home. Stay tuned for updates to come so you can keep up with the best content available right now.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some examples of law-reality TV shows?
Judge Judy, Cops, The People's Court, The First 48.
Who are the most popular TV judges?
Judge Judy Sheindlin, Judge Greg Mathis, Judge Marilyn Milian
What channel can I watch Judge Judy on?
FOX
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