When Clarence Bell (Gary Anthony Williams) puts himself on the list of public defenders available to try a case, shockwaves echo all over Boston. For Mr. Bell, it's hearing he has a first-degree murder case on his hands. Luckily for him, Bethany Horowitz (Meredith Eaton-Gilden) agrees to be second chair if the need arises.
Alan Shore (James Spader), Clarence's immediate boss, is shocked when he discovers Clarence wants to be more than his legal secretary. For some reason, Clarence neglected to mention to the judge this case is his first. Oops! The case is a felony, so it goes to criminal trial for starters. Unfortunately, the classification of crime puts it at the top of the list for worst offenses. Complicating matters is the issue of human trafficking.
After Paul Lewiston (Rene Auberjonois) hears Clarence wants his client to plead temporary insanity, he nixes any idea of Clarence taking the case. Paul considers the ramifications too great if the firm suffers a loss. Later, he re-considers and offers help.
I have to wonder why in the world Clarence didn't ask his old boss, Claire Simms (Constance Zimmer), for her expertise. It makes the most sense as Clarence feels more comfortable with her than anyone else in the office. Of course, they also have their relationship to think of.
Shirley Schmidt (Candice Bergen) is stunned when Jeffrey Coho (Craig Bierko) tenders his resignation, effective immediately. Equally aghast is Claire, who came to the bureau when Jeffrey did ("New Kids on the Block"). He tells her she seems to be happy and should stay.
Brad Chase (Mark Valley) is more disappointed than angry at the news. He and Jeffrey have never gotten along, but they make excellent sparring partners. Brad apologizes for any part he may have had in the decision, but the problem lies with someone else.
Denise Bauer (Julie Bowen) suspects, correctly, her having a baby with Brad doesn't help matters. In private, Jeffrey says it is the final humiliation for him, and adds he has never respected anyone who would agree to be 'friends with benefits'. It's said lightly, but the sting is clearly written on Denise's face.
Shirley thinks there is more to the story, and finds Jeffrey in his Buzz Lightyear costume. He often uses it to help him deal with low blood sugar issues, but there's a complication. When Jeffrey and Brad got into a physical altercation at the last costume party ("Dumping Bella"), something got jammed and he cannot get the costume off. Shirley can't, either. Jeffrey tells her he wanted to be the father to Denise's baby since he was not around much for his own daughter after she was born. Shirley replies he should go ahead and walk out the way he is, holding his head up.
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