This groundbreaking cops-and-lawyers show, whose stories are as contemporary as the day's newspaper, has been honored with over 50 Emmy nominations, including a win in 1997 for Outstanding Drama Series. Distinguished by superb writing, an outstanding cast, and a gritty documentary look, the hour-long program features a unique and compelling format for TV: The first half hour is classic police procedural, while the second half chronicles the ensuing trial. The format has proved so enduring that the show has survived wholesale cast changes and has spun off multiple satellite programs that are as popular as the original franchise.