'Suits': 6 times USA Network's legal drama nailed the realities of a law firm
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: 'Suits' was a popular TV show that aired on USA Network. Over its nine-season run, it garnered a significant fan base and attained cult status among viewers.
The legal drama created by Aaron Korsh followed the life of a brilliant attorney Harvey Specter (Gabriel Macht) and his associate Mike Ross (Patrick J. Adams), who is a college dropout with a remarkable photographic memory and great legal aptitude.
The series revolves around the duo's struggle to win legal cases while navigating personal and professional setbacks.
The series stars Gabriel Macht, Patrick J Adams, Rick Hoffman, Meghan Markle, Sarah Rafferty, Gina Torres, and Amanda Schull in lead roles, with various actors making recurring appearances throughout the show.
The legal world depicted in 'Suits' was rich with legal jargon, mock court sessions, courtroom proceedings, paperwork, and other intricacies of the legal profession.
Here, is a look at a few moments from the series where the legal drama became all too real.
Mike lies about a patent claim filing (Season 1, Episode 2)
After being hired by Harvey Spector, Mike Ross comes to terms with the inner workings of the law firm Pearson Hardman when tasked with filing a patent.
Since he isn't a lawyer, Mike struggles to complete the task and doesn't receive any help from Harvey or Rachel Zane. Mike lies to Harvey about filing the patent claim, jeopardizing his case.
The episode also introduces the antagonistic Louis Litt (Rick Hoffman), who attempts to deceive Mike by fabricating a drug test report.
Mike finally recovers from the situation he is in and helps Harvey win a case. Additionally, Mike secures his first client, catching the attention of Jessica Pearson (Gina Torres).
The entire episode revolving around the patent introduced the audience to the working environment of a legal firm and highlighted the high stakes involved when a mistake is made.
2. Harvey and Louis face off in a mock trial (Season 2, Episode 7)
With an important lawsuit looming over Harvey's head, Louis and Harvey engage in a mock trial.
A mock trial is a common occurrence at a legal firm, and although dramatized, the episode provides insight into the world of a legal firm's mock trial proceedings.
Harvey benefits greatly from the mock trial, especially when Donna Paulsen (Sarah Rafferty) takes the stand. Her testimony provides Harvey with valuable insights into how he could handle the lawsuit.
The episode also gives a sneak peek into Harvey's past in the mail room and the reasons behind Louis' deep resentment of Harvey.
3. Pearson Darby Specter to undergo dissolution (Season 3, Episode 8)
By this time, the firm is known as Pearson Darby Specter, and Edward Darby (Conleth Hill), now a partner in the firm, finds himself entangled in a murder case with conflicted interests.
With Edward Darby's introduction, the firm underwent significant changes in both its name and environment.
However, when Harvey discovers that Edward Darby's sole intention of becoming a partner in the firm was to handle the Ava Hessington (Michelle Fairley) case, they decide to dissolve the firm and regain control of the New York office.
The episode dealt with legal issues like conflict of interest and partnership dissolution.
4. Harvey comes up against Trevor Tanner (Season 3, Episode 10)
Harvey finds himself up against a formidable opponent in this episode, Trevor Tanner (Eric Close), who seeks to settle a score with Harvey by pursuing him for a settlement.
He goes after him both personally and professionally as Ava Hessington's lawyer.
Harvey manages to navigate this threat with the assistance of Mike and Donna. This situation underscores the nature of legal cases outside the courtroom, where settlements can play a crucial role in conflict resolution.
5. Louis becomes a name partner (Season 4, Episode 10)
Louis Litt does a background check on Mike Ross and finds out that he never really went to Harvard as had been claimed. Despite being on the brink of leaving the company, Louis finds his way back.
He confronts Jessica and Donna and ultimately becomes a name partner making the firm Pearson Spector Litt. The entire event highlights the internal politics of a law firm, showcasing how obtaining the partner's name is a coveted position.
6. Mike's confession (Season 5, Episode 16)
As Mike Ross faces prison time for his fraud, he and Harvey navigate the impact on their personal and professional lives, leading to the departure of all employees working for the firm.
Jessica, Louis, and Donna come to understand how the internal dynamics of an organization have an impact on its workforce. The series delves into the conflict between human emotions and the demands of working within the framework of legal practices.
All episodes of 'Suits' are streaming on Peacock.