Peter Goldman, a recurring character on “The Closer,” is a civil attorney who frequently clashes with Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson. He does not die or suffer any catastrophic event on the show; instead, he continues to be a thorn in Brenda’s side, attempting to sue her and the LAPD for various reasons.
In more detail, Peter Goldman, played by Curtis Armstrong, is introduced in the show’s sixth season. He is portrayed as a highly skilled and somewhat unscrupulous civil litigator who often uses underhanded tactics to win his cases. Goldman’s primary goal throughout his appearances is to undermine Brenda and the Major Crimes Division, which he attempts to do by filing lawsuits alleging police misconduct and civil rights violations.
Goldman’s most significant storyline involves his representation of the family of Terrell Baylor, a gang member and murder suspect who commits suicide while in police custody. Goldman accuses Brenda of having led Baylor to kill himself through her interrogation tactics, and he seeks to hold her and the city accountable. This lawsuit becomes a major plot point that spans multiple episodes and significantly impacts Brenda’s career and personal life.
Despite Goldman’s efforts, he does not succeed in his ultimate goal of bringing Brenda down. His character serves as a symbol of the legal challenges and scrutiny law enforcement officers can face in the course of their duties. The tension between Goldman and Brenda adds a layer of complexity to the show, highlighting the conflicts between the pursuit of justice and the legal and ethical boundaries police must navigate.