Often referred to as Hang 'Em High McCoy, Jack McCoy is the lead prosecutor during the trials. Jack has had his share of controversy (a few relationships with former assistants, an investigation by the New York law ethics committee for tampering with witnesses, etc.) but is widely respected as fair and committed to justice for the victims.
The tough cop, Detective Green has had several complaints filed against him for using excessive force. His father was a petrochemical engineer so Detective Green spent his childhood moving around the world. While it is never specifically stated, Green has a deep respect and understanding of the Islamic religion and many believe that he was raised Muslim.
Lt. Van Buren has been the head of the police squad for over 12 years. A proud African American, Lt. Van Buren once sued the New York City Police Department after an inexpereinced white Lieutenant was promoted to Captain over her. Fiercely protective of her detectives, Lt. Van Buren and Jack McCoy have butted heads on several occasions when the integrity of rogue cops like Detective Green and Briscoe are called into question.
The oldest detective on the force, Lennie is the most experienced and most cynical of the group. Known for his sharp wit and pesimisstic one-liners, Lennie was with the 27th precinct for almost 15 years. Lennie has had a lot of tough knocks in his life--two divorces, a life-long struggle with alcoholism, and a lost daughter who was murdered by a drug dealer--but has never doubted his desire to be on the force. It's unsure how many dates he has, but he is known to flirt a bit with the female witnesses.
The toughest ADA to come on to the show, Abbie Carmichael takes Jack's Hang 'Em High attittude and says "Hang 'Em Higher". A rape victim herself, Abbie Carmichael takes particular interest in any sexually-based crimes. Formerly a narcotics ADA, Abbie's 95% conviction rating in that department attracted Jack's attention and she switched into homocide. A strong supporter of the death penalty, Abbie often seeks the death penalty during her cases.
The head District Attorney for the Manhattan district, Arthur Branch is the boss of Jack McCoy and Abbie Carmichael. Arthur was born and raised in Georgia and his conservative southern background often affects the way he sees and tries cases. He and Jack have very different views of government and how far the law should go to prosecute criminals. Jack is much more willing to go after the police, FBI, or government officials while Arthur prefers to allow the government to have more freedom beyond the law in order to protect its citizens.
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