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The Lincoln Lawyer

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General Review

Parent's Guide to The Lincoln Lawyer

The Lincoln Lawyer (2022) is a Netflix original crime and legal drama series based on the novels by Michael Connelly. The show follows the charismatic but unconventional defense attorney Mickey Haller, who operates his practice out of the backseat of his Lincoln Navigator. Reviving his career after a personal setback, Haller navigates the complexities of the Los Angeles legal system, taking on a variety of cases, often defending clients in high-stakes murder trials and other criminal matters. The series blends intricate plotlines, legal procedural elements, and character-driven drama, appealing to an adult audience interested in courtroom mysteries and gritty crime narratives. It delves into ethical dilemmas within the justice system and the personal challenges faced by its characters. The content is suitable for mature viewers due to its themes and explicit elements.

Things to Consider

High2

Violence

As a crime drama, the series frequently features violence, including murders, assaults, and other criminal acts. The plots often revolve around murder investigations, depicting the aftermath of violent acts and the pursuit of dangerous individuals. While not always overtly graphic, the presence of "bloody violence" is noted.

The central storyline of the first season involves Mickey Haller defending Trevor Elliot, a video game creator accused of murder, which necessitates detailed investigation into the violent crime itself. The series includes instances of characters being killed, such as the lead witness Jesús Menendez, whose death impacts a case Mickey is working on. Reviewers note the presence of "some bloody violence" throughout the series.

Profanity

The series is noted for its frequent use of strong obscenities and profanities throughout its dialogue. Reviewers specifically highlight the presence of "strong foul language."

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Medium4
LGBTQ & Gender IdentityRomance and Sexual ContentSubstance UseScary & Intense Content
Low3
Witchcraft & OccultDisrespect & RebellionAnti-Christian Themes
Medium4

LGBTQ & Gender Identity

The series includes references to homosexuality. Mickey Haller's first ex-wife, Maggie McPherson, is identified as lesbian, with mentions of her ex-girlfriend. Additionally, a judge's male partner is referenced in one sequence. The TV adaptation introduced homosexual content not present in the original novel.

Romance and Sexual Content

The series contains implied sexual activity and references to mature sexual themes, including adultery and prostitution, reflecting the adult nature of the cases handled by the protagonist. There are instances of passionate kissing and implied intimacy.

Substance Use

Substance use and addiction are depicted as integral parts of the characters' backstories and the criminal environment portrayed in the series. The protagonist, Mickey Haller, is a recovering opioid addict, and his driver is a recovering heroin addict.

Scary & Intense Content

As a crime and legal drama, 'The Lincoln Lawyer' features consistent suspense and intense situations, particularly during murder investigations, courtroom confrontations, and interactions with dangerous individuals. The show is described as captivating, disturbing, and thrilling.

Low3

Witchcraft & Occult

No instances of witchcraft, sorcery, occult practices, magic rituals, demons, spells, or other supernatural elements are present in 'The Lincoln Lawyer (2022)' based on the available information. The series maintains a realistic tone within the legal and crime drama genre.

Disrespect & Rebellion

While characters, particularly lawyers, may challenge authority and legal norms within the context of courtroom strategy and investigation, there is no pervasive or gratuitous depiction of disrespect or rebellion against societal structures. Any defiance is typically portrayed as strategic rather than an endorsement of outright insubordination.

Anti-Christian Themes

The series does not feature anti-Christian themes. Instead, it includes a positive reference to Christian faith through the protagonist's background.

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The Lincoln Lawyer presents a world deeply entangled in crime, moral ambiguities, and human brokenness, yet it ultimately champions a strong moral and redemptive worldview. The series consistently depicts a system where the guilty often face consequences for their actions, and the innocent are, ideally, set free. This aligns with biblical principles of justice and accountability, even if the paths to achieving justice are often fraught with legal maneuvering and ethical compromise. Characters are not rewarded for vice but often experience the repercussions of their choices, with Mickey Haller himself navigating a path of recovery from addiction, symbolizing a form of redemption. The worldview presented is largely realistic, acknowledging the darkness of sin and human fallibility. However, it is not entirely relativistic; there is an underlying pursuit of truth and a sense that some actions are inherently right or wrong. Elements of sacrifice, particularly Mickey's dedication to his clients and his own personal sacrifices to maintain sobriety, resonate with themes of grace and a striving for a better self. Family values are portrayed in a complex, modern context, with divorced parents (Mickey and Maggie) co-parenting their daughter and maintaining a professional and personal relationship. While unconventional, there is an emphasis on protecting their daughter and supporting each other, even through professional disagreements. Faith is briefly and positively represented through Mickey's recollection of his Christian mother, indicating that while not overtly religious, the series acknowledges and respects personal faith.

Additional Context

Best For Ages

TV-MA (Adults 17+). The series is officially rated TV-MA and reviewers advise "extreme caution for older teenagers and adults". This is due to consistent strong language, significant violent crime content (including murder), implied sexual situations, and references to mature themes like drug addiction, adultery, and prostitution. The complex legal and criminal plots are also designed for a mature audience.

Good to Know

The series is an adaptation of Michael Connelly's novels, with each season generally following a different book in the series. Season 1 is based on 'The Brass Verdict,' Season 2 on 'The Fifth Witness,' and Season 3 on 'The Gods of Guilt'. The show has been renewed, with Season 4 expected in 2026. While the TV series introduces some content, such as homosexual references, that was not present in the original novels, the core themes and adult nature remain consistent.

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