Family Law is an American legal drama television series, created by Paul Haggis and Anne Kenney, that was produced by Paul Haggis Productions, CBS Productions and Columbia TriStar Television and aired on CBS from September 20, 1999, to May 27, 2002. This series starring Kathleen Quinlan as divorced lawyer Lynn Holt, who attempted to start her own law firm after her husband left both her and their law practice, taking all of their clients with him.

The show also starred Christopher McDonald as opportunistic, ambulance-chasing attorney Rex Weller, Julie Warner as Lynn's friend Danni (and the one member of her former firm's staff who did not defect with Lynn's ex-husband), and Dixie Carter as "pit bull" divorce attorney Randi King. Later cast additions included Tony Danza, Cristián de la Fuente, Salli Richardson, and Meredith Eaton as Emily Resnick, an ambitious attorney hoping to make partner.

Edwin Starr's 1970 hit song, "War" was used as the series' opening title theme, in season one. A cover version of the song was performed by The Brink and used in season two and three.

Cast Kathleen Quinlan as Lynn Holt Julie Warner as Danni Lipton (seasons 1–2) Christopher McDonald as Rex Weller Dixie Carter as Randi King Cristián de la Fuente as Andres Diaz (seasons 1–2) Salli Richardson as Viveca Foster Merrilee McCommas as Patricia Dumar Michelle Horn as Cassie HoltPortrayed by Rosemarie Martin in the pilot. David Dorfman as Rupert HoltPortrayed by Elliott & Jordan Dolling in the pilot. Portrayed by Blake Rossi during season 1. Tony Danza as Joe Celano (seasons 2–3) Orla Brady as Naoise O'Neill (season 2–3) Meredith Eaton as Emily Resnick (season 3)

Notes

Episodes

Season 1 (1999–2000)

Season 2 (2000–01)

Season 3 (2001–02)

Release and syndication Since fall 2018, the show has been syndicated on the channel Start TV. Currently it airs Saturdays at 2:00 and 3:00 a.m. EST.

Reception Ron Wertheimer of the New York Times wrote: "Ms. Quinlan is most appealing, but this series can't survive on her determination alone." Tom Shales of The Washington Post gave it a positive review, "Quinlan is admirable and believable as a woman who won't let setbacks set her back; she's easy to root for."

On Rotten Tomatoes, season one has an approval rating of 10% based on reviews from 10 critics. The site's consensus is "Although Kathleen Quinlan gives a commendable performance, Family Law fizzles out with its bizarre tonal shifts, two-dimensional characterizations, and unbelievable storylines."

References

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