Ep 4. A Whiff and a Prayer

Alan Shore and Denny Crane take on the case of a high school principal who fired a cafeteria worker for distributing contraceptives to her students. Meanwhile, Shirley Schmidt and Denise Bauer represent a client who is suing a perfume company for not disclosing their products contained a chemical that caused her to lose her sense of smell. The episode explores the themes of personal autonomy, transparency, and accountability.

The episode opens with the firing of a high school cafeteria worker who distributed contraceptives to her students. The controversy sparks a debate between the legal team at Crane, Poole & Schmidt over the issue of personal autonomy versus parental authority. Alan Shore and Denny Crane ultimately take on the case, defending the cafeteria worker's right to provide contraception to students in need.

The case involves a high school principal who claims to have fired the cafeteria worker for violating school policy against contraception distribution. However, it is soon revealed that the principal's actions were motivated by personal animosity towards the worker, who had previously been involved in a relationship with the principal's husband.

Throughout the episode, Alan Shore and Denny Crane use their trademark wit and charm to win over the jury, arguing that the principal's actions were retaliatory rather than motivated by adherence to school policy. They also highlight the fact that the cafeteria worker's actions did not harm any of the students and were, in fact, a responsible approach to addressing a serious issue.

Meanwhile, Shirley Schmidt and Denise Bauer take on a case involving a woman who has lost her sense of smell due to a chemical in a perfume product. The case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in product labeling. The client, played by guest star Joanna Cassidy, is seeking compensation from the perfume company for not disclosing the chemical in its product.

The case takes unexpected turns as the defendants try to shift the blame to the client's own sensitivity to the chemical. However, Shirley and Denise ultimately prevail, exposing the perfume company's lack of transparency and securing a settlement for their client.

Throughout the episode, the legal team at Crane, Poole & Schmidt grapple with the complexities of personal autonomy and corporate accountability, ultimately delivering justice for their clients.

"A Whiff and a Prayer" is a standout episode of Boston Legal, showcasing the show's trademark blend of sharp dialogue, compelling characters, and thought-provoking issues. Fans of the show will not want to miss this installment, and newcomers will find this episode to be a great introduction to the unique world of Crane, Poole & Schmidt.