Mike Ross officially becomes a lawyer in Season 9, Episode 9, titled “Thunder Away,” of the legal drama Suits. This pivotal moment marks the culmination of his long and arduous journey to legitimacy within the legal profession.
From Fake to Legit: Unpacking Mike Ross’s Journey to Legal Standing
Mike Ross’s story in Suits revolves around his brilliant mind and photographic memory, which he initially used to fraudulently practice law. However, his desire to do good and his unwavering moral compass eventually lead him down the path of genuine legal standing. This journey is not without its trials and tribulations, involving numerous sacrifices and the constant threat of exposure. Understanding the steps Mike takes to achieve legal legitimacy is crucial to appreciating the significance of “Thunder Away.”
The Early Years: Illegitimate Practice and Moral Dilemmas
The initial seasons of Suits are defined by Mike’s precarious position. He’s working as an associate at Pearson Hardman (later Pearson Specter Litt) despite never attending law school. This secret forms the central conflict of the show, driving much of the drama and compelling the characters to make difficult choices. He learns the law on the fly, relying on his intellect and the guidance of his mentor, Harvey Specter. While he excels at his job and demonstrates a genuine commitment to justice, he is always living under the shadow of his past.
The Consequences: Exposure and Incarceration
Mike’s past eventually catches up to him. He is exposed and ultimately sent to prison for practicing law without a license. This experience is transformative. It forces him to confront the consequences of his actions and solidifies his desire to use his abilities for good within the framework of the law. This prison sentence is a crucial turning point in his journey toward becoming a legitimate lawyer.
Road to Redemption: Working at the Clinic and Passing the Bar
Upon his release from prison, Mike is determined to earn his legal standing honestly. He works diligently at a legal clinic, helping those who cannot afford representation. This experience reinforces his commitment to pro bono work and allows him to demonstrate his legal skills in a supervised and ethical environment. He also dedicates himself to preparing for and passing the bar exam, a feat he accomplishes with flying colors.
The Final Step: “Thunder Away” and Official Legal Status
“Thunder Away” sees Mike successfully convince the New York Bar Association to formally admit him to the bar. This final step solidifies his transition from a fraudulent practitioner to a fully licensed attorney. This is not just about achieving legal status; it’s about vindication, proving to himself and others that he can be a legitimate and ethical force in the legal world. The episode is a celebration of his perseverance and commitment to justice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Mike Ross’s Legal Journey
Here are some frequently asked questions about Mike Ross becoming a lawyer in Suits, offering a deeper understanding of the nuances and context surrounding this important plot point:
FAQ 1: What were the specific conditions Mike had to meet to become a lawyer after his release from prison?
Mike had to pass the bar exam like any other aspiring lawyer. He also had to demonstrate good moral character, which was challenging given his prior conviction. He had to prove that he had genuinely reformed and was committed to upholding the law. This involved a rigorous review of his actions and a thorough investigation by the Bar Association. Ultimately, his pro bono work and advocacy for the underprivileged significantly contributed to convincing the Bar that he was worthy of admission.
FAQ 2: Why did it take so long for Mike to become a legitimate lawyer after getting out of prison?
While he passed the bar relatively quickly, the process of proving his moral character to the New York Bar Association was lengthy and complex. His prior crimes, particularly the initial fraud, cast a long shadow and required significant effort to overcome. The legal system is designed to be cautious, and Mike had to work tirelessly to demonstrate his commitment to ethical legal practice.
FAQ 3: Who were the key people who supported Mike in his quest to become a lawyer?
Harvey Specter remained a staunch supporter, utilizing his influence and resources to help Mike. Rachel Zane, his fiancée, provided unwavering emotional support and legal expertise. Katrina Bennett also played a significant role in mentoring Mike and helping him navigate the complexities of the legal system. These individuals believed in Mike’s potential and advocated for him even when his past threatened to derail his progress.
FAQ 4: What ethical considerations did Mike face while trying to become a lawyer?
Mike constantly grappled with the ethical implications of his past actions. He had to be transparent about his prior offenses while simultaneously demonstrating that he had learned from his mistakes. He faced scrutiny from the Bar Association and had to convince them that he was genuinely committed to upholding the law and acting ethically. This required a delicate balance of honesty and advocacy.
FAQ 5: How did Mike’s relationship with Harvey evolve throughout his journey to legal legitimacy?
Harvey’s mentorship of Mike deepened as Mike strived for legitimacy. Harvey transitioned from being a protector of Mike’s secret to a champion of his redemption. He used his influence and legal prowess to support Mike, providing guidance and assistance every step of the way. Their bond solidified as Harvey witnessed Mike’s unwavering commitment to justice and his transformation into a genuinely ethical lawyer.
FAQ 6: Did Mike ever consider abandoning his goal of becoming a lawyer?
Yes, there were moments of doubt and frustration where Mike considered giving up. The process was arduous, and the constant scrutiny took a toll on him. However, his passion for justice and his desire to use his abilities for good ultimately motivated him to persevere. He was also driven by the support of his loved ones, particularly Rachel and Harvey, who encouraged him to never give up on his dream.
FAQ 7: What was the reaction of the other partners at Pearson Specter Litt to Mike’s achievement?
While initially skeptical and concerned about the potential repercussions of Mike’s past, most of the partners eventually came to respect Mike’s dedication and commitment. They recognized his talent and the value he brought to the firm. Louis Litt, in particular, underwent significant character development and became a vocal supporter of Mike’s journey.
FAQ 8: How did Mike’s past affect his ability to practice law effectively even after becoming legitimate?
While his past could occasionally be used against him by opposing counsel, Mike’s experiences ultimately made him a more empathetic and effective lawyer. He understood the struggles of those who had been marginalized by the system, and he was deeply committed to fighting for justice on their behalf. His past gave him a unique perspective and a powerful motivation to use his legal skills for good.
FAQ 9: What specific arguments did Mike use to convince the Bar Association to admit him?
Mike highlighted his pro bono work at the legal clinic, emphasizing the positive impact he had on the lives of underprivileged individuals. He also expressed genuine remorse for his past actions and demonstrated a clear understanding of the ethical responsibilities of a lawyer. He emphasized his commitment to upholding the law and using his abilities to serve the public interest. His sincerity and demonstrable commitment to ethical practice ultimately swayed the Bar Association.
FAQ 10: Did Rachel Zane’s legal career influence Mike’s decision to pursue legitimacy?
Absolutely. Rachel’s unwavering commitment to ethical legal practice served as a constant inspiration for Mike. She encouraged him to pursue his dream of becoming a lawyer the right way and provided unwavering support throughout the challenging process. Her own legal success motivated him to strive for the same level of legitimacy and ethical integrity.
FAQ 11: What impact did Mike’s legal status have on Pearson Specter Litt?
Mike’s legitimate legal status significantly enhanced the reputation and credibility of Pearson Specter Litt. It allowed the firm to take on a wider range of cases and demonstrate its commitment to ethical legal practice. Mike’s success also served as a testament to Harvey’s ability to recognize and nurture talent, even in unconventional circumstances.
FAQ 12: How does Mike’s transformation inspire viewers of Suits?
Mike’s journey from a fraudulent practitioner to a legitimate lawyer is an inspiring story of redemption and second chances. It demonstrates that people can overcome their past mistakes and achieve their dreams through hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to ethical behavior. It highlights the importance of mentorship, support, and the power of believing in oneself, resonating deeply with viewers.