Desc: The Best Defense: Directed by Stan Daniels. With Steve Landesberg, Ricky Paull Goldin, Laura Graham, Mary Jo Keenen. ala "Barney Miller" and "Taxi" type sitcom. This situation takes place behind the scenes in the DA and Public Defender's office, jail and courtroom and the many situations that can arise. Steve Landesberg plays the lead public defender. Rita Moreno is the judge, and Clint Howard is the criminal defendant.