Ep 8. Swearing In

The Practice season 3 episode 8, titled "Swearing In," follows the legal team at the law firm of Robert Donnell and Associates as they prepare for an important trial. The trial involves a young woman named Allison, who has been accused of murdering her abusive boyfriend. Allison's defense is that she acted in self-defense and that her boyfriend had a history of violence towards her.

As the trial approaches, tensions rise among the attorneys as they try to come up with the best strategy to win the case. Bobby Donnell, the head of the firm, is determined to prove Allison's innocence and will stop at nothing to achieve that goal. However, unexpected developments in the case threaten to undermine the defense's case. As the trial progresses, the attorneys are forced to navigate difficult ethical and moral questions about the limits of legal defense.

Meanwhile, Bobby's ex-girlfriend, Assistant District Attorney Lindsay Dole, is assigned to prosecute Allison's case. While she tries to remain professional, Lindsay finds herself increasingly conflicted about the role she is playing. She is torn between her loyalty to justice and her feelings for Bobby, who she still has unresolved feelings for.

Despite the challenges they face, the legal team ultimately comes together to deliver a powerful and compelling defense that sheds light on the issues of domestic violence and self-defense. As the trial draws to a close, the attorneys are left to grapple with the outcome and the implications of their legal strategies.

Overall, "Swearing In" is a gripping and thought-provoking episode that delves into complex issues surrounding domestic violence and self-defense. It showcases the strong performances of the show's talented cast, including Dylan McDermott, Camryn Manheim, and Lara Flynn Boyle. Through its nuanced exploration of legal ethics and moral dilemmas, the episode serves as a compelling example of the show's signature blend of intense drama and nuanced character development.