Ep 2. A Close Shave

In episode 2 of season 1 of Rake, titled "A Close Shave," we are introduced to a new case for criminal barrister Cleaver Greene (played brilliantly by Richard Roxburgh). This time, he finds himself representing a woman named Missy Vaughan (played by Danielle Cormack), who is accused of murdering her partner during a drunken argument.

As Cleaver begins to investigate the case, he uncovers a web of lies and secrets that make the situation more complicated than he initially thought. In addition, he must deal with personal issues in his own life, including his ongoing custody battle with his ex-wife, a client who wants him to represent him in a case of mistaken identity, and his difficult relationship with his young son.

Missy's case becomes even more complicated when her deceased partner's wealthy family hires a high-profile lawyer to represent them. As the trial progresses, Cleaver and his team must navigate a series of twists and turns to uncover the truth behind what really happened on the night of the murder.

Throughout the episode, we see Cleaver's sharp wit and unorthodox approach to law come into play. He is willing to go to great lengths to ensure that his clients receive the best possible representation, even if it means stepping on a few toes along the way.

Overall, "A Close Shave" is a gripping episode that showcases the complexities of criminal law, as well as the personal struggles that Cleaver faces in his own life. With a strong cast of characters and a well-written script, Rake continues to prove itself as one of the most engaging legal dramas on television.