Season 4 of Suits is filled with legal drama, corporate battles, and a range of questionable actions by various characters. When we examine these actions through the lens of Washington State law, several potential crimes come to light. Below, we explore the crimes committed in Season 4 of Suits and how they would be treated under Washington law.

1. Insider Trading

One of the central themes of Season 4 involves insider trading, particularly with Mike Ross and Harvey Specter navigating corporate takeovers and sensitive financial information.

Washington Law: Insider trading is prohibited under RCW 21.20.010, which governs fraudulent practices in connection with securities. If Mike and Harvey traded stocks based on non-public, material information, they could face serious criminal charges under Washington’s Securities Act. Penalties can include substantial fines, restitution, and imprisonment.

2. Forgery

Throughout Season 4, there are instances where forged documents are used to gain an advantage or cover up unlawful activities.

Washington Law: Forgery is a serious offense under RCW 9A.60.020. It involves falsely making, completing, or altering a written instrument with the intent to defraud. In Washington, forgery is classified as a class C felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and significant fines. If the forged documents in Suits were used to deceive courts or clients, those responsible would face serious legal consequences.

3. Perjury

Season 4 of Suits also touches on perjury, where characters lie under oath during legal proceedings.

Washington Law: Perjury is defined under RCW 9A.72.020 as knowingly making a false statement under oath, material to the case. In Washington, perjury is a class B felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and fines. If characters like Mike or Harvey were found guilty of perjury in Washington State, they would face these severe penalties.

4. Obstruction of Justice

Obstruction of justice is a recurring issue in Season 4, with characters attempting to interfere with legal processes or investigations.

Washington Law: Obstruction of justice, covered under RCW 9A.76.020, includes actions such as tampering with evidence, intimidating witnesses, or interfering with law enforcement investigations. In Washington, this can be classified as a gross misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the severity. Penalties range from up to 364 days in jail for a gross misdemeanor to several years in prison for felony obstruction.

5. Bribery

Bribery is another tactic used by characters in Season 4 to influence decisions or gain an advantage.

Washington Law: Bribery is addressed under RCW 9A.68.010, and it is considered a serious crime in Washington State. Bribery involves offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value to influence the action of a public official or someone in a position of power. It is classified as a class B felony, with penalties including up to 10 years in prison and significant fines.

6. Fraud

Various forms of fraud are depicted in Season 4, particularly in corporate dealings and client relations.

Washington Law: Fraud, including wire fraud and securities fraud, is covered under several statutes in Washington. For example, RCW 9A.56.030 addresses theft by deception, which involves using deceitful means to unlawfully obtain property or services. Depending on the amount involved, this can be classified as a misdemeanor or a felony, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment.

Conclusion

Season 4 of Suits presents a variety of criminal activities that, if committed in Washington State, would expose the characters to significant legal jeopardy. From insider trading to forgery and obstruction of justice, these actions are serious crimes under Washington law, with penalties that include heavy fines and imprisonment. Understanding how these crimes are treated in Washington provides deeper insight into the legal and ethical implications of the characters’ actions in Suits.

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About Blanford Law:

We are no-nonsense, relentless, fair, and honest. We are great listeners instead of fast talkers, that is just who we are. More than 20 years ago, Ken began practicing law with a deeply-seeded belief that every person has the right to the best legal representation available. He built his law firm on that belief. Another belief that he strongly adheres to is his fundamental belief that clients deserve respect, with no assumptions or preconceived notions.  If you or someone you know is accused of a crime or injured as a result of the negligence of another, please have them call us at 253-720-9304 or email us info@blanfordlaw.com