Netflix may be ready to build out The Lincoln Lawyer into a bigger streaming franchise. A new spinoff series is reportedly in fast-track development, with Cobie Smulders set to return as Artemisia “Emi” Finch, the half-sister of Mickey Haller.
The project is still in the development stage, but the early details point to Netflix taking a serious look at expanding one of its most reliable legal dramas. According to Deadline, the script is being written by The Lincoln Lawyer executive producers Ted Humphrey, Dailyn Rodriguez and Matthew J. Lieberman, with A+E Studios producing.
The Lincoln Lawyer Spinoff Could Shift the Spotlight to Emi Finch
Cobie Smulders joined The Lincoln Lawyer universe as Emi Finch, a character with a direct family connection to Mickey Haller. Giving Emi her own series would allow Netflix to explore a fresh corner of the same legal world while keeping the tone and audience connection that helped the original show break through.
That approach makes sense. The Lincoln Lawyer has built a loyal following by mixing courtroom drama, personal stakes and Los Angeles atmosphere. A spinoff led by Smulders could widen the franchise without simply repeating Mickey’s story beat for beat.
Is Netflix Turning The Lincoln Lawyer Into a Franchise?
All signs suggest Netflix sees long-term potential here. Streaming platforms continue to lean into recognizable titles with built-in fanbases, and The Lincoln Lawyer is exactly the kind of accessible, binge-friendly drama that can support more than one series if handled carefully.
The original show, based on Michael Connelly’s books, follows defense attorney Mickey Haller as he takes on high-stakes cases while running his practice from the back seat of his Lincoln. Its combination of legal maneuvering, family complications and serialized mystery has made it a strong performer for Netflix.
A spinoff centered on Emi would give the broader universe a new legal or investigative angle while keeping the family connection intact. For fans, that means the possibility of crossover potential without losing the chance for a distinct new lead character.
Cobie Smulders’ Role Makes the Spinoff Especially Intriguing
Smulders brings plenty of TV credibility to the project, from her beloved run on How I Met Your Mother to major franchise work in the Marvel universe. Placing her at the center of a grounded legal drama could be a smart move, especially if the writing gives Emi a sharp professional identity and a complicated personal history.
For now, Netflix has not announced a release date, casting beyond Smulders, plot specifics or whether other Lincoln Lawyer characters will appear. Since the show is described as being in development, viewers should treat this as promising news rather than a formal series order.
Where to Watch The Lincoln Lawyer
The Lincoln Lawyer is available to watch on Netflix in the US, UK and across EU regions where Netflix operates. The reported Cobie Smulders spinoff does not yet have a confirmed release date or streaming launch window, but if it moves forward, it is expected to be a Netflix title.
Show: The Lincoln Lawyer
Where to watch: Netflix
Availability: US, UK and EU Netflix markets
Spinoff release date: To be announced
Tags: #TheLincolnLawyer #CobieSmulders #Netflix #StreamingNews #LegalDrama
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