Lawyer Talk: Off the Record

Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law

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. 4H AGO

    What Went Wrong in the Alex Murdaugh Murder Trial?

    How Jury Misconduct Changed the Alex Murdaugh Murder VerdictThe high-profile murder conviction of Alex Murdaugh was just overturned by the South Carolina Supreme Court due to serious concerns of jury interference by a court staff member. This moment underscores the importance of a fair trial and the dangers of even the appearance of impropriety within our justice system. Key Takeaways: The Appearance of Impropriety Matters: Even indirect or unintentional influence—such as a court clerk making prejudicial comments or offering rides to jurors—can undermine an entire verdict. Maintaining public trust requires not only actual fairness but also its appearance.Protecting Jury Independence is Paramount: Jurors must form their own opinions uninfluenced by external voices, especially from authority figures inside the courthouse. When this sanctity is violated, the legal process itself is at risk.Appellate Courts Will Act: When irregularities are brought to light, especially those involving outside influence on a jury, higher courts show a willingness to take strong corrective action—regardless of a case’s notoriety or public pressure. Moments 04:57 Lawyers getting jury feedback 09:16 Jury duty first-time experience 10:14 Jurors' perspective and trust issues 13:44 Juror influence by court staff 19:05 Juror misconduct and trial fairness 22:25 Discussing lawyer and juror interactions 23:14 Maintaining professionalism around jurors 28:47 Court discusses motives and evidence 30:45 Debating the fairness of the trial 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

    32 min
  2. 1D AGO

    The Truth About Per Se and Impairment OVI Charges in Ohio

    What are the two main ways that a person can be charged with OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired) in Ohio? Steve Palmer and Troy dig deep into the complexities of OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired) laws in Ohio. When is being under the legal limit on a breath test not enough to avoid a DUI arrest? What happens if you seem sober, but the officer has other suspicions? Steve Palmer shares real-life case experiences, breaks down the differences between per se OVI and traditional impairment charges, and discusses how police and prosecutors use everything from field sobriety tests to body cam footage in these often-confusing cases. Plus, with marijuana now legal in Ohio, the two examine how that’s changing law enforcement’s approach. Key Takeaways:Two Ways to Be Charged: You can be charged with OVI in Ohio if (1) your blood, breath, or urine is over the legal limit (per se), or (2) you appear to be under the influence, regardless of your test results (03:24).Below .08? Still Risky: Even if you blow a 0.065, you can still be arrested and prosecuted based on how you act, look, or perform on field sobriety tests (02:22).Video Evidence Is Crucial: Most law enforcement now use body and dash cams. If you look sober and act appropriately on camera, it can be a strong defense. If not, video evidence can easily work against you (10:04). 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

    16 min
  3. 2D AGO

    Is It Illegal to Sleep Drunk in Your Car?

    Why did the Ohio General Assembly decide to create a separate offense for being in “physical control” of a vehicle while under the influence? In this follow-up episode, Steve Palmer and Troy tackle the question about the classic “sleep it off” scenario—can you really avoid a DUI by staying in your car and catching some shut-eye after a night out? Drawing on Ohio law and years of experience, Steve Palmer breaks down what it means to be in “physical control” of a vehicle while under the influence, how that differs from an OVI (DUI), and why the law was changed to address this very situation. The guys explore legal strategy, insurance implications, and the difference between old barstool myths and the current legal reality. Whether you're a legal nerd or someone who enjoys a late-night White Castle run, this episode has practical insight you won't want to miss! Here are 3 key takeaways: Sleeping in your car while intoxicated can still be a crime. The Ohio General Assembly created a separate offense called "physical control," meaning you can be charged even if you’re not driving but merely in charge of the vehicle 03:09.Physical control is less severe than an OVI (DUI). Carrying no mandatory jail time or license suspension, and it’s a non-moving, no-point violation 04:40. It's often used as a plea reduction from drunk driving charges.Insurance implications vary. While not as harsh as a DUI or reckless operation on your record, physical control is still alcohol-related and may impact your insurance differently 05:36. 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 min
  4. 3D AGO

    Nick Fuentes Doxxing and Battery Case

    In our latest episode, Steve Palmer and the team break down a headline-grabbing legal situation involving Nick Fuentes and the boundaries of self-defense at home. Key Topics CoveredDoxing & the Law: What is doxing, and is it a crime? We touch on the consequences and legal gray areas that follow sharing someone’s private information online.Reasonable vs. Unreasonable Force: Steve Palmer discusses what the law actually permits when someone shows up at your door, and where Fuentes may have crossed the line (04:00).Deferred Prosecution & Diversion Explained: Confused about the difference between these alternatives to prosecution? Steve Palmer clearly outlines how these programs work, using Ohio law as an example (09:08 and 11:16).Civil Lawsuits After Criminal Cases: Even after criminal charges are resolved, civil cases can follow. We discuss damages, nuisance value, and when it makes sense to settle (19:20).Creative Lawyering: Sometimes, standard legal options aren’t available, and good lawyers get creative to resolve cases favorably for their clients (29:40). What You’ll LearnWhat is doxing (or doxxing)? - It is the act of publicly revealing private, personally identifiable information about someone online without their consent, often with malicious intent. Derived from "dropping docs (documents)," it aims to harass, intimidate, shame, or threaten victims by exposing details like home addresses, phone numbers, or private emails. The tricky thresholds for self-defense (and why simply being annoyed isn’t enough).Why an apology or anger management class isn’t always as straightforward as it sounds.The meaning of “nuisance value” and why some lawsuits settle regardless of their merits. Did You Know?Fuentes’ case led to a deferred prosecution agreement that included restitution for the alleged victim’s phone, an apology, anger management, and 75 hours of community service (13:28). Yet, the aftermath shows that legal issues often spill into civil court—where money, not just justice, takes the spotlight. Key Moments 03:38 Dealing with public scrutiny 09:08 Understanding diversion programs 10:30 Understanding Ohio's diversion programs 14:53 Using private counseling options 18:50 Explaining assault and battery 20:58 Discussing emotional distress in lawsuits 24:25 Questioning injury severity 27:27 Intervention in lieu of conviction 29:40 Creative case resolution strategies 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

    27 min
  5. MAY 6

    Mixing Guns and Drinking: How a DUI Can Turn Into a Felony

    If you value your rights—and your record—this episode is a must-listen. Steve Palmer and Troy unpack situations where responsible gun owners unintentionally find themselves facing felony charges simply by keeping a firearm in their car while out drinking—even if they didn’t intend to break the law. Drawing on real-life stories and recent court cases, Steve Palmer explains how Ohio’s “constitutional carry” laws, DUI statutes, and local court practices collide to create legal landmines for anyone mixing booze and guns. They discuss how easy it is to lose sight of the risks, share practical tips to avoid getting caught in this high-stakes scenario, and consider the ongoing constitutional debates around the Second Amendment, responsibility, and personal freedom. Key takeaways: Compound Risk: A routine OVI (DUI) stop can escalate into a felony if a firearm is present—even if you’re under the legal limit. This can have serious consequences for your career and future opportunities.Varying Legal Approaches: Different counties handle these cases differently; some prosecutors will work with you, others will not. Outcomes can be unpredictable and severe.Prevention Is Key: Avoid carrying your firearm if you plan on drinking, even socially or casually. Alcohol impairs your judgment more than you think, and “reminder tricks” usually fail. 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

    14 min
  6. MAY 5

    Why Missing Appeal Deadlines Can Destroy Your Case

    Public Service Announcement: Don't Miss Your Appeals Deadlines! Why Are Deadlines Such a Big Deal?So many defendants (and, shockingly, many lawyers) overlook or misunderstand appeals deadlines. As we discuss on the show, these timelines—like the one-year post-conviction deadline in Ohio—are strict, and missing them can mean you lose the chance to ever raise your issue again. Troy learned first-hand that appellate work isn’t always front-and-center in legal education, which only compounds the problem for those navigating the system alone 00:52. What Happens If You Miss a Deadline?The consequences are dire. As we talk about, these deadlines are “jurisdictional” (02:42). That means the court simply can’t hear your case if you file late—no matter how strong your issue is. And while you can try to file late or ask for a delay, most of the time, “you’re screwed” (00:48). It’s brutal, but true. What About Resources for Help?Even if you're out of funds, don’t just give up. Filing something pro se (on your own) is always better than missing your chance entirely (07:03). There’s a case to be made for extending court-appointed counsel into post-conviction work, but for now, beware: you have to protect your rights yourself. Pro Tips from the ShowKnow your deadlines! Ask your lawyer or look them up—some deadlines may be as short as 45 days for a Supreme Court memo, or one year for post-conviction (03:43; 05:06).Don’t rely only on legal counsel. Even great lawyers can forget to tell you about deadlines. Double-check yourself.Act now, not later. Waiting—especially after a direct appeal—can mean you lose everything (05:06).Ask questions. If you’re lost, reach out. The team at Palmer Legal Defense will tell you your deadlines for free (13:22). Justice Only Works If You ActIf you, a family member, or a friend is in the middle of an appeal, do not ignore those dates. (14:21) 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

    15 min
  7. MAY 4

    Why Speedy Trials Aren’t Always as Fast as You Think

    Welcome back to Lawyer Talk, where we break down legal topics so you don’t have to go to law school! In this episode, Steve Palmer and Troy dive deep into the ins and outs of the "speedy trial" right—the constitutional and statutory protections, why the clock isn’t as simple as it sounds, and what it all means for people caught up in the criminal justice system. What Is a Speedy Trial… REALLY? The Sixth Amendment gives you the right to a "speedy and public trial." Sounds simple, right? But as Steve points out at 01:05, the Constitution doesn’t define just how "speedy" that trial has to be.States fill in those details: For instance, Ohio law (like many other states) sets specific timelines—270 days for felony cases, but only 30, 45, or 90 for some misdemeanors (02:10). There’s even a "3-for-1" provision if you’re stuck in jail, meaning each day counts as three (02:30).But—key point—starting the clock isn’t just a matter of being arrested. “Tolling events” (things like filing motions, asking for more discovery, or even court holidays) can pause that clock (03:36, 04:13). It’s a lot more complicated than just a stopwatch! Why the Clock Stops (and What Makes the Clock Tick) Motions filed by your defense? Time often stops while those are pending (04:13). Filing a demand for evidence (discovery), a motion to suppress, or a request to delay for expert testimony—these actions are all "tolling" events.Discovery delays? Sometimes the government dragging its feet can be used as leverage—like asking for a lower bond (07:29), but it might not count against their speedy trial clock.Judge too busy? If your day in court lands on a day the judge is occupied, courts have mechanisms to push the case without violating speedy trial rights (15:19). But there are limits!Case dismissed and refiled? Some waived rights in the first case may not carry over—a crucial, confusing detail that can make or break your defense (13:54). Strategy: Why Sometimes You Don’t Want It Fast As Steve explains, it’s not always in your best interest to rush through a case (08:09). Sometimes more time helps your defense—whether to complete DUI counseling, gather more evidence, or negotiate a better plea (08:47).Other times, speed is key: If it looks like the government can’t get its key witness to court or screwed up your paperwork, insisting on your speedy trial right can mean winning on a technicality (12:03).The real lesson? Strategy matters. Always ask your lawyer to explain why they’re waiving (or not waiving) your speedy trial right. If you don’t get a straight answer, keep asking (09:36). Real-World Scenarios Complicated cases with mountains of evidence or dozens of witnesses? You might need to slow the process down for the sake of a strong defense (12:36).Minor misdemeanors charged right before a court holiday? The system’s own schedule could win your case if you play your cards right (11:38).Discovery "hide and seek" by the government? Sometimes you can use their delay to argue a due process or speedy trial violation (17:00). Key Takeaways Speedy trial rights are a shield and, sometimes, a sword (17:08). They can be strategically used by both sides.The clock is NOT a simple stopwatch–it’s more like a series of checklists, pauses, and conditions (17:24).Communication with your lawyer is everything. Good strategy depends on knowing what’s going on with your case every step of the way (14:39). 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

    18 min
  8. APR 30

    Lorna Hajdini Sexual Harassment Lawsuit at JPMorgan Chase

    We look into the legal nuances of sexual harassment in the workplace, all sparked by a real-life lawsuit against an executive at JPMorgan. Key Topics Covered 1. Unpacking the Case: A sexual harassment lawsuit has been filed against a female executive at JP Morgan—turning conventional scripts and gender stereotypes upside down. Drawing parallels with pop culture references such as Michael Crichton's "Disclosure," Steve and Troy discuss the rarity and significance of such cases, referencing the film’s theme of reversing typical gender roles in harassment allegations (00:35). 2. Shocking Allegations & Texts: Steve and Troy reveal some of the explicit and racially charged alleged messages central to the lawsuit—including threats linked to professional advancement (e.g., "If you don't f**k me soon I'm going to ruin you" and "If you want to be promoted to executive director, you would need to begin pleasing me") (02:35), (06:00). The speakers analyze how these could constitute harassment and complicate the workplace dynamic, especially considering the intersection of sexual and racial elements. 3. The Law Explained – Title VII Protections: Steve offers a crash course in federal employment law, specifically Title VII, which underpins most sexual harassment litigation in the United States. There are two primary legal pathways: Quid Pro Quo: When someone in authority demands sexual favors in exchange for workplace benefits (or to avoid negative consequences) (04:02).Hostile Work Environment: When unwelcome sexual conduct is so severe or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or offensive workplace, impeding job performance (06:26). Both avenues seem implicated by the alleged actions in this case. 4. The Human Element: What compels victims to stay or remain silent? Is it fear of retaliation, career ruin, or the belief they won’t be believed? Steve and Troy dissect the very real dilemmas facing those targeted by workplace misconduct (07:24). 5. What Happens Next? With the legal action freshly filed, the future is uncertain. While neither speaker practices employment law full-time, they outline possible outcomes and encourage professional legal counsel for anyone facing similar circumstances (08:03). Real Legal Analysis: Get an accessible, jargon-free breakdown of how sexual harassment law works.Gender Stereotypes & The Law: A rare look at how the legal system handles cases that don't fit the typical narrative.Pop Culture Meets Reality: Clever references to movies and historical scandals highlight broader trends and public perceptions.Empathy for All Victims: Beyond just the law, the episode respects the human cost and emotional fallout of workplace harassment. Introduction & Case Background: 00:00Discussion of Movie “Disclosure”: 00:42The Explicit Messages: 02:18Title VII Law Crash Course: 03:26Quid Pro Quo vs. Hostile Work Environment: 04:02, 06:26Emotional and Professional Barriers for Victims: 07:24 If you or someone you know is experiencing harassment in the workplace, seek legal assistance. This podcast provides discussion and general information but is not a substitute for individualized legal counsel. 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

    9 min
4.7
out of 5
50 Ratings

About

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

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