Kavanagh QC is a British television series made by Central Television for ITV between 3 January 1995 and 25 April 2001. All five series are available on DVD in both Region 1 and Region 2.

The series starred John Thaw as barrister James Kavanagh QC, who comes from a working-class upbringing in Bolton, Greater Manchester. Although having been alluded to in Series 1 Episode 1, this is only revealed in later episodes as his parents' health deteriorates and through an exchange with a colleague who presumed that Kavanagh was actually a Yorkshireman. Plus, on one occasion Kavanagh dashes off to catch Bolton Wanderers play in a televised football match. The series deals with his battles in the courtroom as well as his domestic dramas which include the death of his devoted and affectionate wife. Later he begins dating a fellow barrister.

In court, Kavanagh is usually seen to be defending a client who seems likely to be convicted until a twist in the case occurs, but occasionally Kavanagh is seen in a prosecuting role. The main plot often features Kavanagh confronting cases with a subtext of racism, sexism or other prejudice. In sub-plots comedy came from the pomposity and self-absorption of Jeremy, a posh barrister in chambers. Kavanagh will not stand for injustice and is never bullied by threats or bribes from those whom he is up against in the courtroom.

MOMENTO MORI

Kavanagh is back at chambers after the death of his wife. He agrees to defend a mild mannered doctor, Dr Felix Crawley (Tom Courtenay) who has been accused of killing his wife although he claims that the drug he prescribed was to cure her manic depression.

CARE IN THE COMMUNITY

avanagh defends a young man who with his partner is accused of nurdering their baby daughter in their run down, high rise building. avanagh's tactics have to change however when it becomes clear that the oung couple are telling different stories.