Bobby Donnell

Bobby Donnell is a fictional character, a self-made lawyer and head of a law firm on the former American Broadcasting Company TV drama, The Practice (1997-2004), set in Boston, Massachusetts. Donnell was played by Dylan McDermott.

Early Life and Practice

His father was Stephen Donnell, a janitor (There is some confusion in the firm over what profession Bobby's father has, in season two, Lindsay mentions that Bobby's father is a janitor; however, in season 3 [3x01 - Passing Go] Bobby implies that his father works in a large law firm and is quite affluent. Statements by Lindsay at the same time corroborate the implication that she, and perhaps others in the firm, believes Stephen Donnell is indeed an affluent lawyer in a large law firm. It is reveiled in the episode; however, that Stephen is indeed a janitor). Bobby's relationship with his father is mentioned throughout the early seaons of the show to imply, in various ways, the reason why he is opposed to the firm's expansion. Bobby was raised in a Roman Catholic household and remained a devoted (if often conflicted) Catholic throughout the series. His parish priest would be a lifelong friend and counselor for him, especially in the days following the death of his mother, something that affected Bobby deeply. Donnell obtained his law degree from Boston's Suffolk University Law School. Growing up, Bobby also met and befriended Jimmy Berlutti.

The Firm

Shortly after graduating and being licensed, Bobby met a young Rebbecca Washington, whom he hired to be his secretary and paralegal. Thereafter, he met with Lindsay Dole, Ellenor Frutt, and Eugene Young. Together, they became Donnell, Dole, Frutt and Young Attorneys at Law. Rebecca Washington, the secretary, would eventually become a lawyer in Bobby's firm. And Jimmy Berlutti would also receive partnership.