10 Common Elements Found in Every Suits Episode

Suits, a television series centered around lawyers and major law firms, may offer a fresh take on the genre, but at its core, it remains a procedural drama with recurring elements in each episode. Running from 2011 to 2019, the show experienced fluctuations in ratings and popularity, especially after key cast changes. Originally featuring Meghan Markle as Rachel Zane, the Duchess of Sussex had to exit the series before her wedding, leading to another main actor, Patrick J. Adams, also departing.

Although these transitions affected the show's viewership at the time, Suits has recently garnered new attention on Netflix. As more viewers discover the series, it's interesting to examine the recurring themes that continue to captivate audiences. Despite the changes in cast, the show's formulaic nature does not diminish its appeal, especially considering the widespread popularity of procedural dramas and its reputation as an easy-to-follow series with self-contained storylines in each episode.

Lying To Everbody

"Why Didn't You Tell Me Before?"

Mike sitting across from Harvey in a scene from Suits. - "Why Didn't You Tell Me Before?" - Lying To Everbody

In Suits, lying plays a central role. Whether it's Harvey deceiving a client, clients not telling the whole truth to their lawyers, or Mike and Harvey keeping Mike's secret about his lack of qualifications. The show delves deep into dishonesty, with characters who often separate their work, relationships, and daily tasks. One of the most common phrases in the series is when characters like Mike and Harvey confront each other, one asking "Why didn't you tell me earlier?" and the other responding with "I'm telling you now."

No Love For Louis

Everybody Hates Louis

Louis in a dream with himself as a judge in Suits - Everybody Hates Louis - No Love For Louis

When the series starts, Louis Litt is a junior partner at the firm. Despite eventually earning his name on the building, he is often disrespected by other characters. Throughout the show, Louis is portrayed as a slimy and spineless lawyer who is willing to do anything to climb the corporate ladder. This is evident in nearly every episode, where Louis is constantly the target of jokes and mistreatment.

Louis Fights Back

With Varying Results Every Time

Louis with his recorder in Suits - With Varying Results Every Time - Louis Fights Back

However, Louis doesn't just sit back and take it. Even though he's often the least-liked person on the show, Louis is always scheming and plotting to get back at those who treat him poorly. Whether it's trying to outsmart Harvey for a promotion, stealing a big case, or messing up someone else's work, Louis has plenty of revenge plans up his sleeve. Unfortunately, many of his schemes end up backfiring, but a few actually work out in his favor.

Slamming A Folder On A Desk

The Most Dramatic Way To Present A New Case

Gabriel Macht as Harvey at the ADA's office in Suits - The Most Dramatic Way To Present A New Case - Slamming A Folder On A Desk

Suits, a legal drama, thrives on creating tension and excitement in every episode. While the real life of a lawyer may not always involve high-stakes court cases or intense legal battles with mind games, Suits turns court proceedings into a captivating spectacle. One way it achieves this is by the dramatic presentation of each new case. In almost every episode, a character storms into another's office and slams a folder on their desk. The recipient then glances over the contents, makes a dramatic declaration, and the case unfolds from there.

A New Case To Win

Which Harvey Always Wins

Harvey and Mike sitting behind the desk during a trial in Suits season 5, episode 14 self-defense - Which Harvey Always Wins - A New Case To Win

Harvey Specter is known for his remarkable track record of winning cases. He once mentioned that he successfully managed 18,362 cases in just two years. Surprisingly, only 147 of those cases went to trial, and he emerged victorious in every single one. Despite the unbelievable numbers, it clearly demonstrates Specter's exceptional skills. In the series, Harvey, Mike Ross, Louis, and other characters handle a new case in each episode, and the firm usually emerges victorious, especially when Harvey is leading the case.

Donna Being The Voice Of Reason

Donna Paulsen Is Easily The Best TV Assistant Of All Time

Donna at her desk in Suits - Donna Paulsen Is Easily The Best TV Assistant Of All Time - Donna Being The Voice Of Reason

Donna Paulsen starts off as Harvey's assistant in the show, but it's clear that she is just as smart as him, if not better in many ways. She is the one everyone turns to in the office for advice, support, or a game plan when things get stressful. Whenever Harvey needs to be reined in or someone needs to be straightened out, Donna is quick to step in and make sure everything runs smoothly.

Failing The Bechdel Test

Despite Plenty Of Strong Female Characters

Rachel Zane (Megan Markle) and Donna Paulsen (Sarah Rafferty) sitting across from each other on a couch in Suits - Despite Plenty Of Strong Female Characters - Failing The Bechdel Test

Suits showcases powerful, confident, and independent women, but it doesn't always pass the Bechdel test. This test measures how women are portrayed in a show or movie and how meaningful their roles are. In Suits, while there are strong female characters, they are often shown talking to or about men, rather than having conversations that are not centered around the opposite gender.

Harvey's Cockiness

Harvey Specter Is Incredibly Self-Assured

Harvey looking serious in an office in Suits - Harvey Specter Is Incredibly Self-Assured - Harvey's Cockiness

Harvey's winning streak definitely boosts his confidence, making him quite full of himself. He doesn't shy away from showing off his good looks and self-assurance. In each episode, he often brags about his greatness and compares himself to others, always placing himself at the top. While this could make him unlikeable, his charm, skill, and intelligence usually justify his cockiness.

Lunch On The Go

New York Street Food And Coffee

Harvey and Mike Getting Lunch Bagel and Coffee in Suits - New York Street Food And Coffee - Lunch On The Go

In a show based in New York with hardworking lawyers putting in long hours at all times, food plays a key role. Whether they are munching on chow mein while going through piles of documents or popping out for a bagel and coffee, food is a regular feature. This might seem trivial, but it highlights the team's commitment and determination, as they often have quick meals on the move while discussing work and heading to their next meetings.

Yelling In Someone Else's Office

The Power Dynamics Are Intense

Jessica in Suits. - The Power Dynamics Are Intense - Yelling In Someone Else's Office

In every episode of Suits, you can expect to see some intense office confrontations. The show thrives on the power struggles between the skilled and ambitious lawyers, each fighting for their share of success. These moments reveal the characters' vulnerabilities as they stand up against perceived unfair treatment or lack of acknowledgment.

Editor's P/S:

The article "Suits: Recurring Themes That Keep the Legal Drama Fresh" provides an insightful analysis of the popular television series, highlighting its formulaic nature and enduring appeal despite cast changes. The show's emphasis on lying, the mistreatment of Louis, and Harvey's unwavering confidence create a compelling dynamic that keeps viewers engaged. The article also acknowledges the show's shortcomings, such as its failure to consistently pass the Bechdel test.

Overall, the article effectively captures the essence of Suits, exploring its recurring themes and their impact on the show's success. It highlights the show's strengths, including its ability to create tension and excitement, while also acknowledging its limitations. The article serves as a valuable resource for fans of the series, providing a deeper understanding of the show's enduring appeal.