Where to start
The Lincoln Lawyer
3 versions · originally a book, 2011
Themes: Moral Ambiguity, Redemption, Justice System, Los Angeles Crime, Underdog.
Michael Connelly’s gritty legal thriller follows a charismatic defense attorney navigating the complex Los Angeles criminal justice system.
✦ Most fans start here
The Lincoln Lawyer (2011)

The original novel
✦ Start hereThe Lincoln Lawyer
Michael Connelly · Book · 2011
The Lincoln Lawyer (2011) book provides the definitive source material, offering an immersive, detailed exploration of Mickey Haller’s internal monologue and the tactical nuances of his high-stakes legal maneuvering.

2011 film
The Lincoln Lawyer
Brad Furman · Film · 2011
The Lincoln Lawyer (2011) movie delivers a sleek, fast-paced cinematic experience that distills the novel’s tension into a sharp performance, perfect for viewers seeking a focused, stylish courtroom thriller.

2022 series
The Lincoln Lawyer
David E. Kelley · Series · 2022
The Lincoln Lawyer (2022) TV series expands the narrative scope, utilizing an episodic format to delve deeper into the procedural complexities and personal life of Mickey Haller throughout Los Angeles.
Common questions
Is The Lincoln Lawyer 2011 movie the same as the book?
The 2011 movie The Lincoln Lawyer is a direct adaptation of the 2011 book of the same name. While the film follows the core plot of the novel, it condenses certain events and character arcs to fit the feature-length runtime.
Does the 2022 TV series follow the book The Lincoln Lawyer?
The 2022 TV series The Lincoln Lawyer is based on the same source material as the 2011 book. However, the show expands the narrative significantly across multiple episodes, allowing for a more detailed exploration of the legal cases and character developments than the original novel.
Should I read The Lincoln Lawyer book before watching the adaptations?
Reading the 2011 book The Lincoln Lawyer provides the original context and depth intended by the author. You can choose to read the book first to establish the foundation of the story, or watch the 2011 movie and 2022 TV series independently.
How do the 2011 movie and 2022 TV series of The Lincoln Lawyer differ?
The 2011 movie The Lincoln Lawyer is a standalone film that covers the primary narrative of the book in one sitting. The 2022 TV series takes a serialized approach, adapting the world of The Lincoln Lawyer into a long-form format that spans entire seasons.