The new NBC drama series is slated to broadcast in 2005 according to an network release. In "Law & Order: Trial by Jury," Neuwirth will play a "tough career Manhattan assistant district attorney" named Tracy Kibre. Orbach, a long-standing member of the original series, will reprise his role as Detective Lenny Briscoe.

"Bebe is one of today's only true stars of stage, screen and television," show creator Dick Wolf stated. "I have no doubt that her presence in an ensemble that already includes Jerry (Orbach) and Fred (Thompson) will help to seamlessly usher in the new series."

Neuwirth earned Tony Awards for her performances on Broadway in Sweet Charity and Chicago. The Broadway baby has also appeared in stagings of A Chorus Line, Little Me, Damn Yankees and Fosse. The actress also made a name for herself, earning two Emmy Awards on television in the role of Lilith Sternin-Crane on "Cheers" and repeat appearances on that show's spinoff "Frasier." Her film credits include "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days," "Summer of Sam," "Bugsy," "Tadpole," "Liberty Heights" and "The Big Bounce."