The Defenders is an American legal comedy-drama television series created by Kevin Kennedy and Niels Mueller and set in Las Vegas, Nevada which involves a pair of defence attorneys who go all out to help their clients while keeping their personal lives in order.
The show is loosely based on real-life Vegas lawyers Michael Cristalli and Marc Saggese.
The series aired in the USA on CBS from 22 September, 2010 to 11 March, 2011. There are 18 hour-long episodes in one season.
The Defenders premiered in South Africa on M-Net and DStv's M-Net HD channel on Thursday 3 November 2011, at 19h30. New episodes broadcast weekly.
Synopsis
The Defenders is a drama about two colourful Las Vegas defence attorneys who go all-in when it comes to representing their clients. Nick and Pete are the local go-to guys with an eclectic client list who are still looking to hit their own jackpot.
Leading the law firm of Morelli & Kaczmarek are Nick Morelli, an earnest, hard-charging attorney who represents his clients to the best of his ability, no matter how big or small the case; and his partner, Pete Kaczmarek, whose passion for the law is matched only by his love of fast cars, beautiful women and expensive clothes.
Joining them in their growing law practice is new associate Lisa Tyler, an enthusiastic young attorney looking to put her exotic dancing days behind her; and their young assistant, Zoe Waters, a spunky and sweet ingénue who is eager to please her bosses.
While Lady Luck shines on their legal careers, the partners have their hands full when it comes to their personal lives.
With Pete busy cruising the Vegas Strip for his latest romantic conquest, Nick is focused on repairing a fractured marriage to his estranged wife and remaining present in the life of their young son.
No matter the offence, Nick and Pete aim to prove that when the stakes are high, they're willing to bet the house on the clients they defend in Sin City.
Produced by CBS Television Studios, The Defenders is executive produced by Carol Mendelsohn, Kevin Kennedy, Niels Mueller, Joe Gantz, Harry Gantz and Greg Walker.