Although the title of the episode doesn't leave much that surprised, the story did sound intriguing though there was the concern as to whether it would be handled with tact or not or whether it would be too somewhat sleazy. What was also interesting was seeing Len Cariou in a role completely different to the Michael Hagarty character he played very amiably in 'Murder She Wrote' (my introduction to him), making for one of that show's best re-curring characters.
"Conduct Unbecoming" is a great showcase for him and it handles its subject very well, intelligently and not in a sleazy way. Like the previous episode "Jurisdiction", it is an extremely good episode in its own way and has a huge amount to recommend (and that is including Cariou himself). Like that episode though, "Conduct Unbecoming" also does slightly lack the extra something that the very best Season 3, and 'Law and Order' overall, episodes had.
My only complaint of "Conduct Unbecoming" is actually the same as for the previous episode "Jurisdiction" in an episode with very little to criticise. Do feel that other episodes before and since have more intensity and emotion.
The performances however are very good. Michael Moriarty effortlessly dominates in the courtroom and Jerry Orbach relishes his one-liners. Love how he and Chris Noth have already gelled so well, and although he would give even better performances the meatier Briscoe's character writing got Orbach was always one of the best things about 'Law and Order' when he was on it (most of the show's run).
Cariou is also wonderful in his role, it is not a subtle one as it is obvious that he is not to be trusted almost immediately. But Cariou gives it all he's got without over-acting and is quite unsettling.
Script is tight and intelligent, with nice tension in the exchanges in the second half and Briscoe's one-liners and wisecracks will never get old. The case is a compelling and clever one and makes one think and unsettled. The episode is well made and there isn't anything inappropriate or misplaced about the use of music and sound.
On the whole, great. 9/10