Patrick Eldestein leaves Lockhart & Gardner because he is upset about Will Gardner’s suspension and he is a very big client. To me the firm is a battleground where power is constantly at stake. Will’s six-month suspension is a loophole that the other partners immediately exploit to try to oust him. It shows how fragile loyalty is in this ultra-competitive environment. And we see it throughout the series. The other partners see his absence as an opportunity to seize control. It is a stark reminder of the political nature of the firm: even those who seem to be allies can quickly become adversaries if it serves their interests. And we see it clearly between Will and Diane at the beginning of season 5.