ABC is expanding The Good Doctor universe with a potential new legal drama titled The Good Lawyer, a spin-off that shifts the focus from the operating room to the courtroom.
The project was designed as a backdoor pilot within The Good Doctor, introducing new characters while maintaining a strong connection to the original series. The episode centers on a high-stakes legal case involving Dr. Shaun Murphy, bringing him into contact with a brilliant but unconventional defense attorney.
At the heart of the proposed series is Joni DeGroot, a young lawyer living with obsessive-compulsive disorder. Known for her sharp legal mind and unique approach to justice, Joni mirrors The Good Doctor’s tradition of spotlighting complex characters who challenge stereotypes and redefine professional excellence. Her story was intended to explore how her condition shapes both her legal strategies and personal life.
The spin-off also introduces Janet Stewart, a seasoned attorney with a commanding presence in the courtroom. As Joni’s mentor and supervisor, Janet provides both guidance and tension, creating a dynamic that blends legal drama with emotional depth.
The Good Lawyer aimed to blend intense courtroom battles with character-driven storytelling, staying true to the emotional tone that made The Good Doctor a long-running success. Producers envisioned the show as a fresh take on the legal genre, grounded in empathy, moral dilemmas, and personal growth.
Despite early interest and strong connections to the original series, ABC ultimately chose not to move forward with The Good Lawyer as a standalone show. While the backdoor pilot gave fans a glimpse of what the series could have become, the network decided to focus its development efforts elsewhere.
Even so, the concept left a lasting impression on viewers, with many praising the performances and the idea of expanding The Good Doctor universe beyond medicine. Though The Good Lawyer will not continue as its own series, it remains an intriguing “what-if” chapter in the franchise’s history.