Production begins on "The Court"

Production has begun in Los Angeles on ABC's midseason drama The Court, set in the venerated halls of the U.S. Supreme Court.

In the programme, pencilled for a launch later this Spring, Emmy Award-winner Sally Field plays Justice Kate Nolan, a pragmatic politician who must prove herself in a deeply divided Court. As she navigates between the liberal and conservative camps of her new colleagues, she must also create a rapport with the brilliant young law clerks assigned to assist her.

While Nolan struggles within the halls of the Supreme Court, an aggressive television reporter, Harlan Brandt and his eager, young production assistant, Betsy Tyler work from outside. Dedicated to putting a face on the work of the court, Brandt’s fast-paced, deadline-driven world is often at cross-purposes with the sanctity of the institution he covers.

The stellar cast includes Pat Hingle as the conservative Chief Justice, Miguel Sandoval as an ultraconservative Justice and Chris Sarandon as a well-bred liberal Justice. Legendary stage and screen star Diahann Carroll makes a special guest appearance as a highly regarded liberal Justice.

The Justices are aided by a group of brilliant and talented clerks. They are Alexis, a passionate liberal, Christopher, a smart, well-mannered Annapolis graduate, and Dylan, who can adeptly argue both sides of the law.

The Court airs later this Spring on ABC.