by Alexandre Muise

Created on: April 15, 2008

Ah yes, Jack McCoy... That lovable hopeful cynic that constantly prosecutes people that most would consider as "untouchable". A modern day Eliot Ness, McCoy has no qualms sticking out for the victim`s rights, regardless how important the defendant may appear.

While he was Assistant District Attorney, McCoy has often caused the head DA many a sleepless night by his brave, and sometimes tactless, methods of picking out cases. Worst yet (from the DA`s point of view) McCoy always picked election years to go after the big cases that always made his boss stress out.

From big pharmaceuticals accused of using illegal immigrants as guinea pigs, to priests that organize the bombing of abortion clinics, Jack McCoy treats all accused defendants equally and without mercy.

The character has had such a profound effect on the show over the many years (longest running character at that, I may add, even longer than detective Lenny Brisco; another remarkable character) that he is now head District Attorney. That means that now he`s the one calling the shots as well as the one taking the flak for his decisions, as well as those of the new ADA.

I must admit not having the chance to see many episodes of Law & Order since McCoy`s promotion, and that is something I regret because the suspense of wondering how this would change McCoy`s style now that there isn't anyone to keep him in check. No one, that is, except the people that chose him at the end of his term (I`m not sure if New York DA is an elected official or one hired/hand-picked by someone or some group).

As the series has developed since McCoy`s first appearance in the late 90`s, replacing Mr. Stone as ADA, this character has proved a valuable asset to the show. All characters, detectives and prosecutors alike, have made (and still continue to) Law & Order the longest lasting American police/courtroom show. Not only do the viewers constantly have to think deeply about "right & wrong" questions that the world is facing as society advances (or degrades itself, depending on your view), but we also get to see the background and personal side of these characters.

Jack McCoy was educated in school by the Jesuits, eventually lapsed out of practicing catholicism, yet has kept a certain respect towards the Church. This has come in handy, both in keeping respect towards religious rights & values, as well as respect towards the law when religious values make someone commit a crime.

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