Lawyer Talk: Off the Record

Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law
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Join Steve Palmer, a seasoned criminal defense lawyer, as he shares valuable legal insights on DUI, traffic stops, and your rights in the legal system. For more, visit www.palmerlegaldefense.com. Recorded at Channel 511 in Columbus, Ohio: www.channel511.com

  1. 53m ago

    Firearms at the Scene: How One Ohio Case Could Change Gun Laws

    Can Ohio punish you just for having a gun at a place where there are drugs? Is It a Crime to Have a Gun Near Drugs in Ohio? Let’s Talk About State v. Brock I explore a hot-button legal issue: can Ohio put you behind bars just because a gun is somewhere near drugs, even if there’s zero proof the two are linked? That’s exactly what’s happening in State v. Brock. It's a case that’s stirring up big questions about gun rights and could end up making law for the whole state (and maybe even the nation). I explain Ohio’s “firearm specification,” which means if you get caught with a gun while committing a crime, extra prison time is almost automatic. But here’s the twist. In Brock, the gun and the drugs weren’t even proven to be part of the same thing. The conversation focused on constitutional rights, what Supreme Court cases like Bruen and Heller mean today, and just how far this issue could go up the legal ladder. What You’ll Learn: Why just having a gun near drugs could trigger a mandatory prison sentence in Ohio 00:50How the Second Amendment is being used to challenge Ohio’s firearm laws in the Brock case 02:07The difference between saying a law is always unconstitutional and that it’s just wrong in certain cases 02:07How recent Supreme Court decisions could turn this case into a big deal for other states too 03:10What to watch next as the case heads to higher courts 05:41 Got a question you want answered on the podcast? Call 614-859-2119 and leave us a voicemail. Steve will answer your question on the next podcast! Submit your questions to www.lawyertalkpodcast.com. Recorded at Channel 511. Stephen E. Palmer, Esq. has been practicing criminal defense almost exclusively since 1995. He has represented people in federal, state, and local courts in Ohio and elsewhere. Though he focuses on all areas of criminal defense, he particularly enjoys complex cases in state and federal courts. He has unique experience handling and assembling top defense teams of attorneys and experts in cases involving allegations of child abuse (false sexual allegations, false physical abuse allegations), complex scientific cases involving allegations of DUI and vehicular homicide cases with blood alcohol tests, and any other criminal cases that demand jury trial experience. Steve has unique experience handling numerous high-publicity cases that have garnered national attention. For more information about Steve and his law firm, visit Palmer Legal Defense. Copyright 2026 Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law 5 Frequently Asked Questions about State v. Brock 1. What’s State v. Brock about? It’s about whether Ohio can send you to jail just for having a gun near drugs, even if there’s no real link between them. 2. What is a firearm specification in Ohio? Basically, it’s a rule that adds extra mandatory prison time if you have a gun when committing certain crimes. 3. How is the Second Amendment used in this case? The discussion explored whether these extra punishments for just having a gun violate your constitutional right to bear arms. 4. What’s the difference between “on its face” and “as applied” challenges? A facial challenge says a law is always unconstitutional; an as-applied challenge says it’s only unconstitutional in this particular case. 5. What happens if the courts disagree on the Brock case? It could go all the way to the Ohio Supreme Court, and maybe even higher, possibly changing gun laws for everyone in Ohio and beyond. Mentioned in this episode: Circle 270 Media Podcast Consultants Circle 270 Media® is a podcast consulting firm based in Columbus, Ohio, specializing in helping businesses develop, launch, and optimize podcasts as part of their marketing strategy. The firm emphasizes the importance of storytelling through podcasting to differentiate businesses and engage with their audiences effectively. www.circle270media.com

  2. 1d ago

    The Lone Holdout in the Clancy Case: Jury Drama, Doubt, and Legal Surprises

    Ever wonder how a single juror can shake up a trial? This episode unpacks jury deadlocks and the rules that protect them. Ever Seen “12 Angry Men”? This Is Real Life Jury Drama A jury split 11 to 1, with one person refusing to go along, and the fireworks that follow. Think classic movie moments, but with very real legal consequences. One concept I cover is the Aliunde Rule. This quirky legal rule says you can’t undo a verdict just because of arguments in the jury room, unless there’s proof of outside misconduct. It protects the back-and-forth of deliberation, making sure jurors can argue without worrying it’ll all come out after trial. I explore what happens when both sides feel passionately about their case, how lawyers fight for their clients (even if that means reversing their own arguments in another case), and why the system is built to encourage tough debates, not just easy agreements. Key Takeaways: You can’t automatically toss out a verdict based on what jurors say went on in the room 00:44Disagreements—and even shouting matches—are built into the process to get to the truth 02:24Even a single juror has real power to shape trial outcomes 03:39Defense lawyers push hard for their clients, and that keeps the system honest 04:02Pushing back against government is a cornerstone of our legal system 04:09 Got a question you want answered on the podcast? Call 614-859-2119 and leave us a voicemail. Steve will answer your question on the next podcast! Submit your questions to www.lawyertalkpodcast.com. Recorded at Channel 511. Stephen E. Palmer, Esq. has been practicing criminal defense almost exclusively since 1995. He has represented people in federal, state, and local courts in Ohio and elsewhere. Though he focuses on all areas of criminal defense, he particularly enjoys complex cases in state and federal courts. He has unique experience handling and assembling top defense teams of attorneys and experts in cases involving allegations of child abuse (false sexual allegations, false physical abuse allegations), complex scientific cases involving allegations of DUI and vehicular homicide cases with blood alcohol tests, and any other criminal cases that demand jury trial experience. Steve has unique experience handling numerous high-publicity cases that have garnered national attention. For more information about Steve and his law firm, visit Palmer Legal Defense. Copyright 2026 Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law Mentioned in this episode: Circle 270 Media Podcast Consultants Circle 270 Media® is a podcast consulting firm based in Columbus, Ohio, specializing in helping businesses develop, launch, and optimize podcasts as part of their marketing strategy. The firm emphasizes the importance of storytelling through podcasting to differentiate businesses and engage with their audiences effectively. www.circle270media.com

  3. 2d ago

    Why the Clancy Case Has Everyone Talking About Evidence

    Curious about how lawyers can say one thing in court and something else after? Let’s talk Clancy and the insanity defense. I walk you through the tricky world of criminal defense strategies, using the Clancy case as a real-life example. The conversation focused on how lawyers can argue their client was insane at trial, then turn around and argue there wasn’t even enough proof they did it in the first place! Sound confusing? You’re not alone. Here’s why it actually makes sense in the legal world. Here’s what you’ll walk away with: Insight into why defense attorneys sometimes admit facts in court, but challenge them in post-trial motions 00:02.A clearer view of the golden rule that the state must prove every part of their case, no matter what the defense says 01:08.A quick history lesson on legal precedents that make this possible 01:49.How arguments over circumstantial versus direct evidence play out in a real courtroom 02:52.What a Rule 25 motion actually is (in plain English) and why it matters after a mistrial 02:19. Got a question you want answered on the podcast? Call 614-859-2119 and leave us a voicemail. Steve will answer your question on the next podcast! Submit your questions to www.lawyertalkpodcast.com. Recorded at Channel 511. Stephen E. Palmer, Esq. has been practicing criminal defense almost exclusively since 1995. He has represented people in federal, state, and local courts in Ohio and elsewhere. Though he focuses on all areas of criminal defense, he particularly enjoys complex cases in state and federal courts. He has unique experience handling and assembling top defense teams of attorneys and experts in cases involving allegations of child abuse (false sexual allegations, false physical abuse allegations), complex scientific cases involving allegations of DUI and vehicular homicide cases with blood alcohol tests, and any other criminal cases that demand jury trial experience. Steve has unique experience handling numerous high-publicity cases that have garnered national attention. For more information about Steve and his law firm, visit Palmer Legal Defense. Copyright 2026 Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law Mentioned in this episode: Circle 270 Media Podcast Consultants Circle 270 Media® is a podcast consulting firm based in Columbus, Ohio, specializing in helping businesses develop, launch, and optimize podcasts as part of their marketing strategy. The firm emphasizes the importance of storytelling through podcasting to differentiate businesses and engage with their audiences effectively. www.circle270media.com

  4. Sep 28

    What Ohio Law Really Says About Suppressor Use and Concealed Carry

    Are you legally allowed to carry your concealed handgun with a suppressor in Ohio? Learn about dangerous ordinance laws here. Can You Legally Carry a Concealed Handgun with a Suppressor in Ohio? Here’s What Every Gun Owner Needs to Know Navigating Ohio’s gun laws can be trickier than many realize—especially when it comes to suppressors (silencers) and concealed carry. Even if you’ve done everything right, a small misstep could turn lawful activity into a felony. Steve Palmer breaks down why this legal loophole matters, and what gun owners must watch out for. Episode Overview Steve Palmer explains constitutional carry in Ohio and how the state’s definition of a "dangerous ordinance" surprisingly includes firearm suppressors (00:47).The current law means you could lawfully own a suppressor and handgun, but carrying them together—concealed—could make you a felon (01:32).He highlights recent legal challenges and possible changes to suppressor regulations following court rulings like the Silencer Shop Foundation case in Texas (02:47).Important implications for gun owners while driving: having a suppressor-attached handgun in your vehicle could land you in legal trouble (03:34).Steve Palmer advises practical steps to avoid violations and previews how future legal reforms could resolve these issues (04:24). Top Takeaways In Ohio, a suppressor is considered a dangerous ordinance—making it illegal to carry concealed when attached to a handgun.Concealed carry with a suppressor, even in your car, currently risks felony charges.Federal and state laws don’t always align; recent cases may change registration requirements for suppressors.Legal reforms or court challenges could change these rules, but for now, gun owners must be vigilant.Practical advice: remove the suppressor when transporting your gun to avoid legal issues (04:30). Submit your questions to www.lawyertalkpodcast.com. Recorded at Channel 511. Stephen E. Palmer, Esq. has been practicing criminal defense almost exclusively since 1995. He has represented people in federal, state, and local courts in Ohio and elsewhere. Though he focuses on all areas of criminal defense, he particularly enjoys complex cases in state and federal courts. He has unique experience handling and assembling top defense teams of attorneys and experts in cases involving allegations of child abuse (false sexual allegations, false physical abuse allegations), complex scientific cases involving allegations of DUI and vehicular homicide cases with blood alcohol tests, and any other criminal cases that demand jury trial experience. Steve has unique experience handling numerous high publicity cases that have garnered national attention. For more information about Steve and his law firm, visit Palmer Legal Defense. Copyright 2026 Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law Mentioned in this episode: Circle 270 Media Podcast Consultants Circle 270 Media® is a podcast consulting firm based in Columbus, Ohio, specializing in helping businesses develop, launch, and optimize podcasts as part of their marketing strategy. The firm emphasizes the importance of storytelling through podcasting to differentiate businesses and engage with their audiences effectively. www.circle270media.com

  5. Sep 23

    Polygraph Tests in Criminal Defense: Myths, Realities, and Negotiation Strategies

    Are lie detector tests admissible in Ohio criminal trials? Discover the truth about polygraphs in felony cases and plea deals. Even when a defendant passes a polygraph, Ohio courts generally do not allow these results unless there’s a rare, risky stipulation between the prosecution and defense. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why polygraph results are usually not admissible in Ohio felony hearings or trialsWhat a "stipulated polygraph" is, and why it’s rarely usedHow passing (or failing) a polygraph can impact plea negotiations with prosecutorsReal examples where polygraphs affected charging decisionsStrategic advice on navigating polygraph offers in criminal cases 5 Frequently Asked Questions About Polygraph Test Are polygraph results admissible in Ohio criminal trials? No, polygraph results are generally not admissible in felony hearings or trials in Ohio unless there is a rare stipulated agreement 00:45.What is a stipulated polygraph in Ohio law? A stipulated polygraph is an agreement where both sides consent in advance to admit the results in court, but it carries significant risk for the defense 01:24.Can passing a polygraph help with plea negotiations? Yes, passing a polygraph can sometimes influence prosecutors during plea deals, even if the results aren’t used in court 02:46.Should defendants agree to a stipulated polygraph? The discussion highlighted the dangers; most defense attorneys avoid it because a failed result can be used against the defendant at trial 01:57.Do police ever use polygraph results in deciding to file charges? Yes, there are cases where police use polygraph outcomes when deciding whether or not to bring charges, but there’s no consistent rule 03:16. Submit your questions to www.lawyertalkpodcast.com. Recorded at Channel 511. Stephen E. Palmer, Esq. has been practicing criminal defense almost exclusively since 1995. He has represented people in federal, state, and local courts in Ohio and elsewhere. Though he focuses on all areas of criminal defense, he particularly enjoys complex cases in state and federal courts. He has unique experience handling and assembling top defense teams of attorneys and experts in cases involving allegations of child abuse (false sexual allegations, false physical abuse allegations), complex scientific cases involving allegations of DUI and vehicular homicide cases with blood alcohol tests, and any other criminal cases that demand jury trial experience. Steve has unique experience handling numerous high publicity cases that have garnered national attention. For more information about Steve and his law firm, visit Palmer Legal Defense. Copyright 2026 Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law Mentioned in this episode: Circle 270 Media Podcast Consultants Circle 270 Media® is a podcast consulting firm based in Columbus, Ohio, specializing in helping businesses develop, launch, and optimize podcasts as part of their marketing strategy. The firm emphasizes the importance of storytelling through podcasting to differentiate businesses and engage with their audiences effectively. www.circle270media.com

  6. Sep 22

    Should You Crack Your Window During a Traffic Stop

    What happens when a police officer asks you to roll down your car window? Is it safer to comply, or does cracking the window protect your rights? In this episode, we break down the law, the myths, and what really matters at the roadside. I answer a real-world listener question about police requesting drivers to roll down their windows and whether refusing or only cracking the window protects the driver. I discuss the "plain sniff" test, where officers claim to smell contraband, and the legal strategy around window compliance. The listener asks about the Mims order, where law enforcement can lawfully order you out of the vehicle following a valid traffic stop, and the risks associated with non-compliance. I cover the the practical and perceptual consequences of only slightly opening your window and how that may affect your case. The plain view doctrine and its implications during traffic stops round out the episode. Key Takeaways: There is generally no law requiring you to roll your window all the way down for police (00:41), but refusing can escalate the situation (01:24).The Pennsylvania v. Mims case allows police to order drivers out of the vehicle after a lawful stop (01:02).Cracking your window may be used as evidence of "consciousness of guilt" in court (01:53), potentially hurting your case later.The plain view exception allows officers to seize contraband visible from outside the car (03:32).Legal battles are best fought in court, not on the roadside; comply with lawful orders and contest issues through legal channels (03:16). Submit your questions to www.lawyertalkpodcast.com. Recorded at Channel 511. Stephen E. Palmer, Esq. has been practicing criminal defense almost exclusively since 1995. He has represented people in federal, state, and local courts in Ohio and elsewhere. Though he focuses on all areas of criminal defense, he particularly enjoys complex cases in state and federal courts. He has unique experience handling and assembling top defense teams of attorneys and experts in cases involving allegations of child abuse (false sexual allegations, false physical abuse allegations), complex scientific cases involving allegations of DUI and vehicular homicide cases with blood alcohol tests, and any other criminal cases that demand jury trial experience. Steve has unique experience handling numerous high publicity cases that have garnered national attention. For more information about Steve and his law firm, visit Palmer Legal Defense. Copyright 2026 Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law Mentioned in this episode: Circle 270 Media Podcast Consultants Circle 270 Media® is a podcast consulting firm based in Columbus, Ohio, specializing in helping businesses develop, launch, and optimize podcasts as part of their marketing strategy. The firm emphasizes the importance of storytelling through podcasting to differentiate businesses and engage with their audiences effectively. www.circle270media.com

  7. Sep 21

    What Happens If You Refuse to Show ID as a Passenger in Ohio

    Ohio law can be confusing for passengers during traffic stops—find out when you have to show ID and what happens if you refuse. Are police allowed to demand ID from passengers during a traffic stop in Ohio? Understanding your rights can prevent unnecessary escalation and protect you during a stop. In this episode, Steve Palmer untangles the frequently misunderstood laws around passengers, police, and IDs in Ohio. He explores key court cases, exceptions to the rules, and the difference between your rights and the consequences of exercising them. What you'll learn: When police can (and cannot) require a passenger to provide IDThe role of reasonable suspicion and specific Ohio laws like House Bill 492How landmark cases such as Florida v. Bostic, Rodriguez v. United States, Pennsylvania v. Mims, and Maryland v. Wilson shape your rightsWhy exercising your rights may still lead to uncomfortable or escalating interactions, and what to realistically expectPractical tips from Steve Palmer on how to handle these situations safely and assertively No matter your legal background, this episode equips you to handle Ohio traffic stops as a passenger with confidence. Submit your questions to www.lawyertalkpodcast.com. Recorded at Channel 511. Stephen E. Palmer, Esq. has been practicing criminal defense almost exclusively since 1995. He has represented people in federal, state, and local courts in Ohio and elsewhere. Though he focuses on all areas of criminal defense, he particularly enjoys complex cases in state and federal courts. He has unique experience handling and assembling top defense teams of attorneys and experts in cases involving allegations of child abuse (false sexual allegations, false physical abuse allegations), complex scientific cases involving allegations of DUI and vehicular homicide cases with blood alcohol tests, and any other criminal cases that demand jury trial experience. Steve has unique experience handling numerous high publicity cases that have garnered national attention. For more information about Steve and his law firm, visit Palmer Legal Defense. Copyright 2026 Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law Mentioned in this episode: Circle 270 Media Podcast Consultants Circle 270 Media® is a podcast consulting firm based in Columbus, Ohio, specializing in helping businesses develop, launch, and optimize podcasts as part of their marketing strategy. The firm emphasizes the importance of storytelling through podcasting to differentiate businesses and engage with their audiences effectively. www.circle270media.com

  8. Sep 16

    How a Battery-Operated Taxi Sparked Legal History in 1897

    Learn how a 19th-century London taxi accident led to the world’s earliest recorded DUI and changed public safety laws. Steve Palmer brings a fascinating and little-known story from legal history: on September 10, 1897, London cab driver George Smith made headlines as the first person ever charged for driving under the influence—crashing his electric taxi on New Bond Street. Before official DUI laws even existed, Smith was fined under public safety legislation, setting a precedent for how our legal system would approach intoxicated driving. Key Moments Covered: The details behind the 1897 London taxi crash and the first-ever DUI charge 00:00How the case was handled before DUI statutes were written 00:41The legal workaround: charging drivers for public safety violations 00:59 Submit your questions to www.lawyertalkpodcast.com. Recorded at Channel 511. Stephen E. Palmer, Esq. has been practicing criminal defense almost exclusively since 1995. He has represented people in federal, state, and local courts in Ohio and elsewhere. Though he focuses on all areas of criminal defense, he particularly enjoys complex cases in state and federal courts. He has unique experience handling and assembling top defense teams of attorneys and experts in cases involving allegations of child abuse (false sexual allegations, false physical abuse allegations), complex scientific cases involving allegations of DUI and vehicular homicide cases with blood alcohol tests, and any other criminal cases that demand jury trial experience. Steve has unique experience handling numerous high publicity cases that have garnered national attention. For more information about Steve and his law firm, visit Palmer Legal Defense. Copyright 2026 Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law Mentioned in this episode: Circle 270 Media Podcast Consultants Circle 270 Media® is a podcast consulting firm based in Columbus, Ohio, specializing in helping businesses develop, launch, and optimize podcasts as part of their marketing strategy. The firm emphasizes the importance of storytelling through podcasting to differentiate businesses and engage with their audiences effectively. www.circle270media.com

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Join Steve Palmer, a seasoned criminal defense lawyer, as he shares valuable legal insights on DUI, traffic stops, and your rights in the legal system. For more, visit www.palmerlegaldefense.com. Recorded at Channel 511 in Columbus, Ohio: www.channel511.com

Information

  • Creator
    Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    499
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law
  • Show Website
    Lawyer Talk: Off the Record

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