When the series begins, she holds the rank of Detective and is partnered with Detective Elliot Stabler (Christopher Meloni). Following Stabler's departure at the end of the 12th season after a deadly shootout in the precinct, she is partnered with Detective Nick Amaro (Danny Pino). During the 15th season, Benson is promoted to Sergeant and appointed as acting commanding officer, in the wake of the retirement of both Sergeant John Munch (Richard Belzer) and Captain Donald Cragen (Dann Florek). During the 17th season, she is promoted to Lieutenant and becomes the squad's official commanding officer.