Despite not attending Harvard Law School or any other law school, Mike Ross managed to practice law in the TV show Suits with the help of several characters. Suits, a legal drama on USA Network, debuted in 2011 and ran for 9 seasons. While the series is now notably recognized as Meghan Markle's final acting role before becoming the Duchess of Sussex, it gained a dedicated following during its peak. Suits featured a talented ensemble cast and explored the complexities of operating a major law firm in New York City.
Although the show focuses on various key figures within the original Pearson, Hardman firm, its main protagonists are Harvey Specter and Mike Ross. Together, they formed an exceptionally skilled legal team and were often regarded as the best closers in the city. Harvey's confidence and experience, combined with Mike's extensive legal knowledge and eidetic memory, made them an unbeatable duo. The only obstacle they faced was Mike's lack of attendance at Harvard Law, the sole law school that Pearson, Hardman recruited from. In fact, he never even attended any law school at all. Despite this, Mike was able to practice law effectively.
Mike Ross Convinced Harvey Specter To Hire Him
In the premiere of Suits, Harvey received a promotion, becoming Pearson, Hardman's newest senior partner. Despite fierce competition from Louis Litt, Jessica Pearson had her sights set on Harvey as her successor. As part of his new role, Harvey needed to hire an associate. Although initially resistant and believing he was better off working alone, Jessica argued that it was a requirement and necessary for him to maintain his new position. This led Harvey to cross paths with Mike at a hotel, where Mike and his secretary, Donna Paulsen, were conducting interviews for potential candidates.
Unbeknownst to Mike, he had come to the same hotel to deliver a briefcase of marijuana, not realizing that it was part of a police operation. Sensing the opportunity to escape from the authorities, Mike found himself in Harvey and Donna's interview room, making a strong impression as he tried to avoid being caught by the police. During their conversation, Mike revealed the truth about himself. Impressed by his resourcefulness and knowledge of the law, Harvey conducted a series of tests and came to the realization that Mike was the best candidate available. Taking a leap of faith, Harvey immediately hired him on the spot.
Harvey Protected Mike In Suits
Taking a risk on Mike was an audacious move, even for someone like Harvey in Suits who thrived on taking chances. Harvey not only jeopardized his recent promotion and faced the possibility of being fired from Pearson, Hardman, but he also faced the risk of being disbarred and imprisoned. Initially, only Harvey and Mike were aware of their secret, but Donna soon became privy to it as well. It didn't take long for Jessica and Louis to discover the truth as well. If it weren't for Harvey's protection, Mike would have had no chance to settle into his new role at Pearson, Hardman before being fired.
It goes without saying that Harvey's decision to hire Mike carried significant weight. It's no surprise that he did everything in his power to safeguard his protégé during their time working together. At every twist and turn, Harvey steadfastly defended his choice, while Mike consistently proved his worth by working diligently and delivering results on each individual case. Although he may not have always succeeded in this regard, Harvey made countless efforts to shield Mike from harm.
Mike Got His Law License In Suits Season 6
Ultimately, the secret of Mike and Harvey was uncovered despite the support they had from the law firm's higher-ups. A series of unfortunate events led to their exposure. Instead of holding Harvey accountable for his involvement in the scheme, Mike chose to shoulder all the blame, which resulted in him serving time in prison. Harvey made every effort to ensure Mike's safety while also devising ways to secure his release.
After a long journey, Mike was eventually released from prison. With Jessica's personal sacrifice, he was able to obtain his own law license in Suits season 6. However, after years of deception, Mike made the decision to depart from the world of corporate law. He joined Rachel Zane in opening a legal aid clinic in Seattle. This departure was a part of the show's creative choice to write out Markle's character due to her involvement with the British Royal Family.