Self Defense

Self Defense is the fourteenth episode of the fifth season of Suits, and the 74th overall. It first aired on February 17, 2016.

Synopsis

As time runs out before the trial, Mike wants to represent himself while Harvey wants to lead the charge. To decide the issue, Harvey challenges Mike to a winner takes all showdown.

Plot

Starring

Main Cast

Guest Cast

Farid Yazdani as David Green
Tony Desantis as Jury Foreman
Earl 'Bubba' McLean Jr. as Bailiff

Recurring Cast

Tom Lipinski as Trevor Evans
Suzanne McKenney as Judge Ralls
Pooch Hall as Jimmy Kirkwood
Max Topplin as Harold Gunderson
Rachael Harris as Sheila Sazs
David Reale as Benjamin
Leslie Hope as Assistant U.S. Attorney Anita Gibbs

Major/Highlighted Events

Trevor is subpoenaed to Mike's trial by Anita Gibbs, who offered him immunity from being charged on his drug dealing past. Trevor, not wanting to perjure himself, reveals everything about Mike. However, Harvey manages to make him look bad in front of the jury by making him admit that he lied about being jealous of Mike (due to Jenny choosing Mike over him), thus causing his statement look weaker.
- Trevor also admits that Mike did approach him three days ago and asked him not to testify.
In an effort to get Mike to not represent himself at trial, Harvey and Jessica decide to throw a mock trial at the firm to prepare Mike, at the expense of airing their dirty laundry in front of the whole firm.
- Mike manages to convince most of the jury that he is a lawyer, even beating Harvey, but Harvey brings in Rachel and rips her to shreds, bringing up the fact that she cheated on him with Logan Sanders. As Mike is emotionally troubled that Harvey would stoop so low, Donna points out to Rachel that while she may hate what Harvey did to her, Harvey's ability to do so is what makes him a great lawyer.