ABC finds fodder for drama in ‘The Court’

Who knew that the Supreme Court was such fertile dramatic ground that it would inspire not just one, but two midseason replacements?

First on the docket was CBS’ “First Monday,” which has proved thuddingly executed despite having a strong cast.

Now, premiering at 10 tonight on ABC, is “The Court.” The drama follows new Supreme Court Justice Kate Nolan (played by Sally Field) as she adjusts to life in those hallowed chambers.

The series also makes the smart move of having a second, outside perspective. In this case, it’s that of aggressive TV reporter Harlan Brandt (Craig Bierko), who’s covering the court for a cable channel.

Shows set in this high level of justice have much to overcome. Having a clerk crack a dusty lawbook and shout out, “I’ve found a precedent in Fluffernutter v. the State of Minnesota” isn’t exactly sparkling dialogue. A series about ideas faces an uphill battle with the limited attention-spanned viewership of America.

So it’s essential to develop intriguing characters. “The Court” makes a good start with Field (you like her, you really like her), who’s back where she began on TV. Field is believable as the Ohio governor thrust into a role that she was hardly anticipating. She’s ably aided by such veteran character actors as Pat Hingle, Miguel Sandoval and Chris Sarandon as fellow justices vying for her support.

After Field’s recurring role as Abby Lockhart’s mentally ill mother of “ER,” it’s not surprising to see her pop up on another John Wells production. “The Court” also has a “West Wing” look to it, with sweeping vistas of the capital’s landmarks.

However, those expecting another “West Wing” are going to be disappointed, as only Aaron Sorkin can provide that kind of machine-gun dialogue. Still, “The Court” is already the better of the two Supreme Court shows currently airing and promises to develop into a reliably enjoyable series in future weeks.