Today's discussion takes a long look into the nuanced and often misunderstood aspects of self-defense law. Joining Steve are law students Bella and Troy, as they explore real-world scenarios where using force—whether a taser or a gun—comes into play.

They cover critical topics such as the limitations and effectiveness of firearms in self-defense situations, the psychological and legal ramifications of using lethal force, and recent changes in Ohio's self-defense laws, including the "stand your ground" provisions.

From vivid personal anecdotes to complex legal doctrines like the castle doctrine, this episode provides a comprehensive look at the rights and responsibilities tied to defending oneself and one's property.

Whether you're a law enthusiast, a gun owner, or just curious about the intricacies of self-defense, this episode promises to be enlightening and thought-provoking.

Key Moments

00:00 Self-defense controversies resurfaced with Rittenhouse case.

04:04 Castle doctrine questions about self-defense and boundaries.

07:41 Frozen with fear, considered calling police.

11:07 Gun safety requires proper knowledge and training.

13:28 Excessive force: Shooting at unarmed attacker.

18:47 Eliminating duty to retreat outside home.

20:00 He believed he was in imminent danger.

25:50 Men don't understand women's fear of attack.

26:34 It's different realities for men and women.

29:47 Guns require responsibility; not everyone is trained.

35:21 Reluctant self-defense readiness despite justified consequences.

38:19 Self-defense complexities seldom taught in law school.

40:51 Client retreated during Columbus shooting altercation.

45:17 Ohio law shifts self-defense burden to prosecutor.

47:25 Proved innocence due to burden of proof.

51:40 Law school lacks practical application, embrace mistakes.

Key Takeaways

Understanding Real-World Application: The legal landscape around self-defense, including Stand Your Ground laws and the castle doctrine, is complex and requires careful consideration of both subjective and objective perspectives.

Real-life scenarios differ drastically from media portrayals. The chaos of an actual confrontation can lead to unexpected outcomes, even for trained individuals like police officers.

Legal and Emotional Aftermath: Using lethal force in self-defense can result in severe legal and emotional consequences. Even when justified, individuals may face murder charges and a lengthy trial process.

Prosecutors might not always see things from the defendant's perspective, which can significantly impact the accused's life.

Best Practices Post-Incident: After a shooting, it's crucial to exercise your 5th Amendment right to remain silent and consult a lawyer before speaking to the police. This mirrors protocols even police officers follow, which is a "cooling off" period before giving statements.

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...

Whether you've been pulled over for a DUI or an OVI, I unpacks the immediate administrative license suspension process.

From the dual roles of police officers at the scene to the implications of refusing a breath test versus taking one, I cover it all. Plus, I'll explore the nuances of court-imposed suspensions and the possibility of obtaining occupational driving privileges.

If you're navigating this challenging legal terrain, this episode is a must-listen.

The key takeaways I want you to remember include understanding the consequences of refusing a breath test versus taking one, the duration of suspensions, and how these administrative suspensions impact court-imposed suspensions. I also touch on available relief options, such as occupational driving privileges, which can provide leeway for essential life activities despite a suspended license.

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 2025 Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law

This episode is inspired by a question from one of our listeners, Tim Carnes, who raised some valid concerns about dealing with police officers on the side of the road.

I explore your 5th Amendment right to remain silent, the implications of not answering police questions, and how exercising your constitutional rights can better position you for legal defense.

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 2025 Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law

In this episode, prompted by a listener's thought-provoking question, we tackle the contentious topic of abortion, its classification under the law, and what constitutes negligent homicide. We'll navigate the complexities of Ohio laws on murder and pregnancy termination, shed light on recent changes such as the reversal of Roe v. Wade, and discuss the implications of constitutional amendments versus statutory laws.

You'll gain insights into the essence of legal argumentation, the pivotal role of intent in legal contexts, and the challenging reality of separating emotions from logic in court decisions.

Whether you're a law student, a practicing attorney, or simply curious about the legal landscape, this episode promises a rich, nuanced look at some of the critical issues facing the legal world today.

Key Moments

00:00 Is abortion considered negligent homicide legally speaking?

03:30 Analyzing negligence homicide statute's legal requirements.

06:49 Roe v Wade reversed; Ohio amends constitution.

12:18 Abortion debates: legal vs constitutional challenges persist.

14:19 Ohioans' reproductive rights protected, abortion restricted post-viability.

18:24 Negligent homicide laws differ from abortion laws.

21:07 Unintentionally causing unborn child's death impacts sentencing.

23:42 Criminal plaintiff is government; tort differs significantly.

26:25 Emotions hinder objective analysis of decisions.

31:52 No definitive answers; understanding both sides essential.

32:48 Understanding appellate court decisions' structure and logic.

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 2025 Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law

Why should you refuse a breathalyzer test?

In Ohio, and many other states, there are two main ways you can be charged with OVI: operating a vehicle while impaired and a per se violation.

I explore how these charges differ, the implications of refusing a blood, breath, or urine test, and why it might be strategically beneficial.

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 2025 Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law

When you're pulled over by the police, it can be a nerve-wracking experience. Understanding what the police can and cannot do during a traffic stop is crucial for anyone who drives.

One of the key cases discussed is Pennsylvania vs. Mims, a landmark Supreme Court decision that clarifies the authority police have during traffic stops. Through this case, we learn that officers can order drivers and passengers out of the vehicle for their safety, even during routine traffic stops. This ruling is crucial for understanding your rights and the legal obligations you face when interacting with law enforcement.

We also touch upon the concept of Terry stops, originating from the case Terry vs. Ohio. These stops allow police to briefly detain individuals if they have reasonable suspicion of criminal activity. It's a delicate balance between ensuring public safety and respecting individual rights, and our discussion aims to demystify these legal terms and concepts.

But why is compliance so important? Steve emphasizes refusing to follow lawful police orders can quickly escalate a situation. While it may feel unjust, the reality is that officers have the authority and tools to enforce compliance. Our legal system is designed to address any overreach or misconduct after the fact, not during the encounter. Steve advises cooperation during the stop, as it can prevent unnecessary complications and potential arrests.

For those concerned about DUI scenarios, this episode provides valuable insights. We discuss what happens if an officer suspects you've been drinking and how to navigate such situations lawfully. Understanding the difference between a lawful order and a request, like field sobriety tests, is crucial for protecting your rights.

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 2025 Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law

Steve Palmer welcomes Glenn Harper from Harper & Co CPA Plus and get into the practical aspects of launching and managing your own law firm with valuable insights. Whether you're fresh out of law school or considering branching out on your own, this episode is packed with essential advice you won't want to miss.

Key Takeaways:

Build Strong Professional Relationships:

• Invest in a supportive financial team to navigate both personal and business challenges. Glenn underscores the importance of consulting this team before making significant financial decisions to manage funds effectively.

Focus on Ethical Financial Management:

• Steve Palmer emphasizes the discipline required for financial management, emphasizing the risks of financial desperation and the temptations to mishandle trust accounts. Remember, long-term financial stability hinges on maintaining transparent and honest practices.

Prioritize Building Your Network Over Traditional Marketing:

• Creating long-term relationships and becoming a trusted resource within your network can outweigh traditional marketing strategies. Both Glenn and Steve agree that genuinely helping others fosters referrals and opportunities, often leading to sustained success.

Key Moments

00:00 Business operations and tax efficiency planning advice.

09:23 Create a budget and reinvest earnings.

12:11 Set minimum withdrawals; let the company grow.

19:18 Deductible expense vs. nondeductible debt payment.

24:39 Different business strategies: Income flow vs. startup needs.

27:56 Early career attorneys accept lower-value cases initially.

35:53 Avoid debt; manage business expenses responsibly.

38:57 Funds held in trust, transferred as work completes.

42:08 Maintain detailed trust account records for compliance.

49:48 Discipline leads to big profit and success.

53:13 Develop relationships with key professional contacts.

01:00:11 Cash misuse leads to financial instability and guilt.

01:04:27 Build right; avoid financial trouble and pitfalls.

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 2025 Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law

Steve Palmer unravels the complexities of attorney-client privilege.

Discover how this crucial legal concept protects communication between lawyers and clients, ensuring confidentiality and trust.

Learn about the ethical rules that guide lawyers, the difference between privilege and confidentiality, and the rare exceptions to this robust protection.

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 2025 Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law