Review Pro Deo: overworked social lawyers remain sympathetic despite their shortcomings
Pro Deo is an eight-part Dutch drama series that focuses on the daily struggles of legal aid lawyers working in a modest, high-pressure collective. Lead character Alex Sterkenburg and her colleagues navigate challenging cases while attempting to balance their personal lives with heavy, often overwhelming professional workloads.
The Dutch drama series Pro Deo offers a departure from traditional legal shows by focusing on a struggling collective of legal aid lawyers rather than affluent corporate attorneys. Directed by Will Koopman, the eight-part series follows Alex Sterkenburg, a dedicated but overworked lawyer portrayed by Tjitske Reidinga, as she juggles a heavy caseload and personal challenges. Her colleagues, including the stressed Henry and the ambitious rookie Layla, face similar pressures, often leading them to make questionable decisions while attempting to balance their professional burdens with their private lives.
While the series utilizes familiar tropes of well-meaning professionals struggling with mounting dossiers and emotional exhaustion, it remains compelling through its realistic portrayal of the Dutch legal aid system. The show covers a diverse array of cases, ranging from complex criminal charges involving minors to family law disputes and personal behavioral issues. Through the strong performance of its lead, Pro Deo manages to evoke genuine empathy for its flawed but sympathetic characters who are constantly overwhelmed by the demands of their clients and personal circumstances.
Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.
