With the episodes from 'Law and Order's' middle period and from its later seasons airing so often, it is very easy perhaps to overlook the early seasons. Meaning in my view pre-Season 7. That is a shame, because 'Law and Order' in its early years was more often than not good to fantastic with some truly fine episodes in each of the seasons in question. Wasn't blown away by every episode but when the show was at its best it was brilliant, and there were obvious good things in lesser episodes too.
That was in my view proven in the previous episode "Savages". It was proven again in the fourth episode of Season 6 "Jeopardy". The subject may not be as tough here in "Jeopardy", but the forceful yet tactful approach to handling tough material is again evident here. It has all the right ingredients executed beautifully and with no issues and it has the further bonus of doing a truly fine job with one character in particular, shining the most he did in a while.
Immediately standing out, and this is the character that "Jeopardy" does an especially fine job on, is Schiff. Here in a very personal case for him and his conflict comes over intensely and movingly. Steven Hill was always excellent as the character, and hardly ever gets enough credit, and Schiff always did have quality lines and exchanges (again not talked about enough). "Jeopardy" is one of his shining episodes in his most interesting appearance since Season 4's "Snatched".
"Jeopardy's" story is very engrossing, having tension and emotional impact. Personally didn't think that it was too standard, and Schiff's role did lift it above the ordinary. The writing is beautifully balanced and intelligent that explores the subject with force but also sensitivity. Schiff's jeopardy line is classic Schiff.
Moreover, there is typically great acting with Hill giving one of his best performances of the show. "Jeopardy" is well made, intimately photographed and slick with no signs of under-budget or anything. The music didn't sound melodramatic or too constant and the direction is accommodating while still having pulse.
Another outstanding episode overall. 10/10