Ep 20. Hope and Glory

Ally McBeal season 3 episode 20, entitled "Hope and Glory," follows the attorneys at Cage & Fish as they navigate a emotional case involving a young boy with a brain tumor.

The episode begins with Ally, Georgia, and Renee attending the funeral of a former law school classmate. While there, they run into a man they knew from law school, who has since become a successful lawyer. The encounter makes Ally feel insecure about her career, causing her to question whether she is truly making a difference as a lawyer.

Back at the office, the attorneys take on the case of a young boy named Christopher who has been diagnosed with a brain tumor. His parents, who are devout Jehovah's Witnesses, refuse to allow him to receive a blood transfusion as part of his treatment, as it goes against their religious beliefs. This puts Christopher's life in danger, as the transfusion is necessary for him to survive.

As the case progresses, tensions rise between the attorneys, as they struggle to balance their personal beliefs with the best interests of their client. Elaine decides to take matters into her own hands, as she feels strongly that Christopher should receive the transfusion. She ends up confronting the boy's father outside the hospital, which leads to a physical altercation between the two.

Meanwhile, Ally continues to feel insecure about her career, and confides in her therapist, Dr. Tracy Clark. Dr. Clark encourages Ally to focus on the good she has done as a lawyer, and not to compare herself to others.

In the end, the attorneys reach a compromise with Christopher's parents. They agree to allow him to receive a transfusion, but only if it is performed by a doctor who is also a Jehovah's Witness. The episode ends with Ally reflecting on the case, and feeling more confident in her abilities as a lawyer.

Overall, "Hope and Glory" is an emotionally-charged episode that explores the difficult choices faced by attorneys as they work to advocate for their clients. It raises important questions about religious freedom, medical ethics, and the role of the legal system in protecting vulnerable individuals.