Ep 8. Lincoln (Part 1)

In Boston Legal season 3 episode 8, titled "Lincoln (Part 1)," we see the return of an old acquaintance to the firm: Edwin Poole. Edwin is a former senior partner at Crane, Poole, and Schmidt who now suffers from early onset Alzheimer's disease. Although Edwin's condition has deteriorated rapidly, he still has moments of clarity and decides to come back to the firm to help defend a man on death row.

The man's name is Leonard Taft, a Vietnam veteran who was convicted of murdering a police officer thirty years ago. Edwin believes that Taft is innocent and has been framed for the crime by corrupt politicians and law enforcement officials. He convinces Alan Shore, who has taken over his position at Crane, Poole, and Schmidt, to take up the case and help exonerate Taft.

Alan is initially skeptical of Taft's innocence but agrees to take on the case out of loyalty to Edwin. Meanwhile, fellow attorney Denny Crane is dealing with his own personal crisis as he struggles to come to terms with his advancing age and declining mental faculties. Denny becomes increasingly paranoid and fearful of his own mortality, leading him to contemplate drastic measures.

As the trial approaches, the lawyers at Crane, Poole, and Schmidt work tirelessly to gather evidence to prove Taft's innocence. However, they soon discover that their efforts are being sabotaged by mysterious outside forces, and their lives are threatened as they get closer to the truth.

The episode ends on a cliffhanger as the lawyers are left reeling from a devastating setback in the case. The fate of Leonard Taft hangs in the balance, and tensions are running high as the trial enters its next phase.

Overall, "Lincoln (Part 1)" is a gripping and intense episode that explores some of the show's recurring themes of justice, morality, and the human condition. The episode also features standout performances from William Shatner as Denny Crane and James Spader as Alan Shore, who continue to showcase their chemistry and dynamic characterizations.