Mike Ross’s charade comes crashing down in Season 5, Episode 10, titled “Faith.” This episode marks a pivotal moment in the series, shifting the narrative dramatically and testing the loyalty of everyone involved in his secret.
The Arrest: A Defining Moment in Suits
The arrest of Mike Ross in “Faith” is arguably one of the most impactful plot points in Suits. After years of successfully practicing law without a legitimate degree, the house of cards finally collapses, exposing the elaborate deception that has defined the series’ central conflict. The episode skillfully builds tension throughout, culminating in a shocking scene that leaves viewers reeling and questioning the future of Pearson Specter Litt.
The Lead-Up to the Arrest
Several events contribute to the inevitability of Mike’s arrest. Jack Soloff’s relentless pursuit of power, combined with Sheila Sazs’s discovery of Mike’s Harvard transcript anomaly, create a perfect storm. Although Rachel Zane encourages Mike to come clean, and he even attempts to secure a deal with the U.S. Attorney to protect his colleagues, his efforts ultimately prove futile.
The Arrest Scene Itself
The arrest itself is orchestrated with dramatic flair. As Mike prepares to marry Rachel, he is apprehended by federal agents during his bachelor party, moments before he is set to celebrate his future. The scene is visually arresting, conveying the sense of betrayal and despair that washes over Mike and those closest to him. The use of close-up shots on Mike’s face and the faces of his friends and colleagues amplifies the emotional impact.
The Immediate Aftermath
Mike’s arrest triggers a cascade of consequences. Harvey Specter, Jessica Pearson, Louis Litt, and Rachel Zane are all implicated in the conspiracy, facing potential legal repercussions and professional ruin. The firm’s reputation is severely damaged, leading to a scramble to contain the damage and protect their careers. The remaining episodes of Season 5 and beyond focus on the fallout from Mike’s arrest and the fight to exonerate him and his accomplices.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into Mike’s Arrest
Here are some frequently asked questions about Mike Ross’s arrest, offering further insights into this crucial storyline:
FAQ 1: What specific crime was Mike Ross arrested for?
Mike was arrested for conspiracy to commit fraud and practicing law without a license. These are both serious charges with potentially severe penalties. The fraud stems from Mike’s fraudulent credentials allowing him to obtain employment and represent clients as an attorney.
FAQ 2: Who reported Mike Ross to the authorities?
While Sheila Sazs uncovered the discrepancy with Mike’s Harvard transcript, it was Sheila’s fiancé, Assistant U.S. Attorney Scottie (Dana Scott), who ultimately reported Mike. This betrayal adds another layer of complexity to the already intricate relationships within the Suits universe. Scottie makes this drastic choice after discovering Harvey and Mike colluded to hide evidence from her.
FAQ 3: What was the motivation behind Scottie reporting Mike?
Scottie’s motivation was a combination of factors. Primarily, she felt betrayed and used by Harvey. She believed that he had deliberately withheld information from her and manipulated her for his own benefit. Her decision was also driven by her commitment to the law and her belief that Mike’s actions were a serious offense that could not be ignored.
FAQ 4: Did Mike try to prevent his arrest?
Yes, Mike attempted to prevent his arrest. He tried to negotiate a deal with U.S. Attorney Gibbs (played by Leslie Hope), offering to plead guilty in exchange for immunity for Harvey and Jessica. However, Gibbs rejected this offer, determined to bring down the entire firm.
FAQ 5: What were the potential consequences for Pearson Specter Litt after Mike’s arrest?
The potential consequences were dire. Pearson Specter Litt faced investigations, lawsuits, and the loss of clients. The reputation of the firm was severely damaged, and the partners were at risk of disbarment and criminal charges.
FAQ 6: How did Harvey Specter react to Mike’s arrest?
Harvey was devastated and felt responsible for Mike’s situation. He immediately went into damage control mode, working tirelessly to protect Mike and the firm from the fallout. He sought legal loopholes and explored every possible avenue to mitigate the damage. Harvey’s reaction underscored the deep bond and loyalty he felt towards Mike.
FAQ 7: What role did Rachel Zane play after Mike’s arrest?
Rachel was heartbroken and determined to stand by Mike. She provided emotional support and worked with Harvey to find ways to help him. She grappled with the ethical implications of Mike’s actions, but her love and commitment to him remained unwavering. She even postponed their wedding to focus on his case.
FAQ 8: How long was Mike Ross sentenced to?
After a lengthy trial, Mike was initially sentenced to two years in prison. The exact duration was never definitively stated on the show, but the implication was a maximum of two years based on the charges and plea deal he eventually accepted.
FAQ 9: Did Mike actually serve his entire sentence?
No, Mike did not serve his entire sentence. He was released early after making a deal with Sean Cahill to protect Kevin Miller (played by Eric Palladino), a fellow inmate, by acting as an informant against a corrupt businessman.
FAQ 10: How did Mike’s time in prison affect him?
Mike’s time in prison was a transformative experience. It challenged his moral compass and forced him to confront the consequences of his actions. He emerged from prison a changed man, more determined than ever to use his skills to help others, but this time, within the confines of the law.
FAQ 11: What ultimately happened to Mike’s law license?
Mike’s legal situation remained complex. After his release, he initially struggled to find legitimate employment. However, with Harvey’s help and advocacy, Mike eventually passed the bar exam legitimately after an exemption was granted due to his prior work and demonstrable legal skills. He was finally able to practice law legally, fulfilling his long-held ambition.
FAQ 12: Did Mike ever reconcile with Scottie?
While Scottie and Harvey briefly reconnect after Mike is in prison, their relationship never fully recovers from her betrayal. They respect each other, but the trust that was broken is never completely restored. Scottie continues her career elsewhere, and the romantic spark between them remains extinguished. Their final interactions are marked by a sense of closure and acceptance.
The arrest of Mike Ross in “Faith” is a watershed moment that redefined the stakes for everyone involved in Suits. It serves as a potent reminder of the consequences of deception and the enduring power of loyalty in the face of adversity. The episode’s dramatic tension, combined with its emotional depth, cements its place as one of the most memorable and impactful episodes in the series’ history.