In this episode, we are discussing what they never teach you in law school—how the real world of law clerkships really works. Joining me is Troy Hendrickson, my resident law clerk and a current law student, who brings his own fresh experiences to the table.

Together, we break down what it actually means to be a law clerk—beyond the fancy titles—and get honest about pay expectations, resume-boosting positions, and the difference between big firm opportunities and the invaluable, hands-on education you get in a smaller practice like mine. We talk money, motivation, government jobs versus the private sector, and why sometimes the most valuable lessons don’t come with the biggest paychecks.

If you’re in law school, just starting your legal career, or simply curious about what a clerkship looks like on the ground, you’ll want to hear this conversation.

Key Moments

00:00 "Law School vs. Real-World Practice"

03:53 Avoided Big Law Temptations

08:34 Law Salary Expectations Disparity

12:10 Pre-Internet Problem-Solving Skills

14:29 "Mastering Skills Through Experience"

17:25 Paralegals: Efficient Alternatives in AI

19:40 Value Learning Over Initial Pay

22:53 "Law School's Economic Lessons"

Here are my top three takeaways:

• The Prestige and the Pay Are NOT Equal: Big Law may pay top dollar for summer clerks, but not every opportunity is a financial windfall—and often, the most prestigious or educational clerkships pay the least. Don’t overlook the value of experience for resume-building, even if the paycheck is modest.
• The Real Learning Starts Outside the Classroom: Most of the practical skills that make you valuable in a law practice—drafting, filing, firm workflow—aren’t taught in law school. You’ll learn by doing, often starting with the “menial” work that teaches the business from the ground up.
• Focus on the Experience (Not Just the Dollars): Especially in smaller firms or government settings, you might earn less, but the breadth of hands-on work and real legal training can set you apart. As Steve pointed out, the value of an opportunity isn’t always reflected on your paycheck—and sometimes, learning how things really work is worth more than a few extra bucks an hour.

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

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

I’m Steve Palmer, and today I’m answering a great question sent in by Nancy from Ohio. Her son was arrested for OVI—even though his breath test was 0.07, which is below the state’s legal limit of 0.08. How is that possible?

In this episode, I’ll clear up the confusion around Ohio’s OVI laws, explain the difference between “impaired” and “per se” charges, and share how prosecutors build their cases even when the numbers seem to be in your favor.

I’ll also talk about why having a lawyer on your side is essential when facing an OVI or DUI charge. If you’ve ever wondered about what the “legal limit” really means or how law enforcement handles these cases, you’ll want to listen in.

Here are 3 key takeaways from the conversation:

• Two Ways to Be Charged:

In Ohio, you can be charged with OVI either by exceeding the legal limit (‘per se’ at 0.08 BAC for adults) OR by showing signs of impairment, regardless of your BAC.

• Impairment Can Trump the Numbers:

Even if your BAC is under 0.08, evidence such as slurred speech, poor field sobriety results, or an unsteady demeanor can still result in charges if law enforcement believes you are impaired.

• Legal Nuances Require Expertise:

Defending an OVI charge—even with a low BAC—can be complex. Legal limitations may prevent simply using the breath test result as a defense without expert testimony.

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

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

I got a listener question about the Bryan Kohberger sentencing and a comment President Trump made on social media. Trump suggested that the judge should force Kohberger to explain why he committed such terrible crimes—but is that really something a judge can do?

Drawing on my own experience practicing law in Ohio, I’ll walk you through the ins and outs of plea hearings, what rights a defendant actually has at sentencing, and the concept of allocution. I’ll break down how things typically work in the courtroom, whether a judge can—or should—demand an explanation from the defendant, and what it means for the justice system as a whole.

00:00 Can Judge Make Defendant Explain?

04:44 Judge's Discretion in Plea Agreements

06:34 "Case Closed, Open for Questions"

Here are three key takeaways:

• Defendants Can’t Be Forced to Explain Motives: Judges generally cannot compel a defendant to state why they committed a crime, except in limited plea scenarios. The primary focus is often on whether the guilty plea itself is backed by factual acknowledgment, not personal motivation.
• The Right of Allocution Is Standard, But Not Mandatory: Defendants have the right to speak (“allocute”) before sentencing—whether to apologize, explain, or even decline to say anything at all. However, most courts won’t force them to do so, and this right is widely but not constitutionally recognized.
• Withholding Explanation Can Influence Sentencing: While silence is an option, judges have the discretion to reject plea agreements or impose harsher sentences if a defendant withholds information the court finds important.

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

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

“What does it mean if you receive a target letter from the United States Attorney’s office?”

With my background in federal criminal defense, I’ll explain exactly what a target letter is, why the government sends them out, and what you should do if you ever find one in your mailbox.

I’ll share real-world examples from my own cases—involving everything from tax evasion to firearms—and walk you through the do’s and don’ts when dealing with the feds. Most importantly, I’ll explain why ignoring a target letter is never the right move, and what steps you need to take to protect yourself.

Here are 3 key takeaways from the episode:

A target letter is a warning, not a suggestion: If you’ve received one, it usually means the U.S. Attorney believes they have a case against you, and an indictment is likely.

Don’t ignore it—get a qualified criminal defense lawyer ASAP: The letter will often tell you to do just that. Ignoring it can have serious consequences, including being picked up unexpectedly or not having time to prepare a solid defense.

Civil or transactional lawyers are not enough: Steve shares real-life cautionary tales of people following the wrong advice. Only a lawyer experienced in federal criminal matters can navigate these waters.

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

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

Steve Palmer here - I'm joined by our resident law student, Troy Hendrickson, who’s here to bring a fresh perspective and some real-life questions from the trenches.

Today, Troy brings up a hot topic that’s been making waves among his fellow clerks and across legal social media: Can courts stop ICE agents from making arrests inside the courtroom?

We look into real cases—including one where a judge faced criminal charges for attempting to help a defendant evade ICE—and discuss candidly the legal and ethical limits for lawyers and judges when it comes to federal agents and immigration enforcement.

We’ll cover important concepts like the supremacy of federal law, what attorneys can and can’t do when it comes to clients facing arrest, and where the line is between standing up for your beliefs and risking your career. Whether you’re a law student, a practicing attorney, or just curious about the realities behind courtroom doors, you’ll find plenty to chew on in this episode.

Key Moments

00:00 Judge Aids Defendant's Escape

05:19 "Unpleasant Ethical Duties in Law"

08:27 Legal Ethics: No Crime Assistance

12:20 Arguing Both Sides Skillfully

13:06 Mastering Argument: Embrace All Sides

Here are my top 3 takeaways:

• Ethics over Emotion: As attorneys, our personal views can’t trump ethical and legal obligations. Even if you disagree with the government’s actions, taking active measures to help clients evade arrest (like sneaking them out the back) can cross into obstruction of justice—and carry real consequences.
• Know Where the Line Is: There’s a critical difference between informing a client of a warrant and helping them hide or avoid law enforcement. Advising is part of the job; aiding in evasion is not.
• Federal vs. State Authority: The courtroom is a public forum, and ICE—as federal agents—cannot easily be banned from the space by local judges. The Supremacy Clause puts federal law above state, meaning local attempts to keep ICE out could backfire.

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

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

I’m giving you my take on one of the hottest topics in the legal world right now: artificial intelligence. More and more companies are using AI for things like contract drafting, document review, and legal research—and I’m here to share my own experiences with these tools in my practice, along with some thoughts on where this technology is headed.

I’ll walk you through how I use AI to manage massive piles of discovery, transcribe hours of police bodycam footage, and even help with legal research and drafting arguments. I’ll also talk candidly about where AI falls short, why there’s no substitute for actual legal judgment, and the dangers of putting too much trust in technology. You’ll hear my take on how AI might drive down the cost of legal services and change the way law firms are structured—whether you’re part of a huge corporate outfit or running a solo shop like mine.

Here are my top 3 takeaways for legal professionals considering AI:

AI boosts efficiency, especially with document review.

Lawyers and firms can now use AI to quickly summarize large volumes of legal documents, discovery materials, and even transcribe hours of police footage, saving valuable hours that used to be spent manually reviewing files.

Human oversight remains critical.

While AI can draft memos and briefs or conduct legal research, Steve warns that these outputs can still include mistakes or misinterpret case law. Final review by an experienced attorney is a must to ensure accuracy and avoid professional pitfalls.

AI can cut costs for lawyers and clients.

By reducing repetitive tasks, AI may lower the need for excessive billable hours or extra associates. This means leaner firms and potential savings passed on to clients, especially for routine work like contracts and memos.

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

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

In this follow-up episode, I’m digging deeper into the behind-the-scenes realities of how judges get involved in plea deals—something that came up after a listener asked about the high-profile Kohberger case.

Drawing from my own experience in the courtroom, I break down what actually happens when the defense and prosecutor work out a resolution, and just how much the judge usually knows ahead of time.

I also talk about the key differences between state and federal courts, sharing some candid stories where things didn’t exactly go according to plan—sometimes it really feels like the “wild wild west.” If you’ve ever wondered how plea discussions unfold, what role judges play, or how I prepare clients for the unknown, this episode will give you honest, practical insight.

Here are 3 key takeaways:

• Judges Aren’t Always Part of Plea Negotiations: Contrary to popular belief, the judge’s main role is to approve or reject a plea, not craft the agreement. In some jurisdictions, judges may offer input, while in others, it's a strict closed-door policy, and the outcome remains uncertain until sentencing.
• Every Jurisdiction is Different: There’s a stark difference between federal and state courts. Some state judges might preview potential sentences with counsel, while in other courts, lawyers are left guessing until the very end.
• Always Prepare for the Unexpected: Even with a “recommended” sentence agreed upon by both sides, the judge is not required to follow it. As Steve Palmer shared, lawyers must always prepare clients for every possible outcome.

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

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

This week, we're talking about one of the toughest real-life dilemmas facing new lawyers—something law school rarely prepares you for: navigating client wishes versus ethical boundaries.

We take you behind the scenes of everyday law practice. From handling clients who want to take highly risky (sometimes, downright hopeless) legal steps to the tough decisions attorneys must make about which fights to pick… it’s an eye-opening look at the messy, often unglamorous side of legal work.

Key Discussion Highlights:

• What happens when a client wants to withdraw a guilty plea—even if it’s a terrible idea? Steve and Troy talk through how lawyers handle these requests, why it’s rarely as straightforward as clients hope, and what the law actually allows.
• Ethical boundaries vs. making a living: How do attorneys decide whether to take on a case they believe is a lost cause? Hear about the fine line between providing hope, doing your ethical duty, and avoiding the trap of just “taking the money.”
• Lessons law school skips: Steve reflects on why ethics in real life is far more complex than textbook scenarios, and shares how he balances legal rules, his conscience, and his clients’ desperation for help.
• Should lawyers ever take futile cases just because a client insists—especially if someone else will? The discussion gets honest (and a little bit philosophical) about client autonomy, justice, and where a lawyer should draw the line.

Listener Challenge:

Have you faced a similar dilemma—in law or another field? Would you “fix the stairs” if the client is willing to pay, even if it’s not in their best interest? We want to know!

Reply to this email or leave your thoughts via our socials or at lawyertalkpodcast.com.

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

Connect with us: Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | LawyerTalkPodcast.com

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

One of the most important—and often overlooked—aspects of the criminal justice process: how to choose the right appellate lawyer.

Over the years, especially as I’ve shifted my practice even more toward appellate work since COVID, I’ve seen firsthand how critical it is to have someone by your side who knows the ins and outs of appeals, post-conviction rights, and all the potential pitfalls along the appellate ladder.

Just hiring any lawyer for your appeal isn’t enough. I’ll walk you through the so-called “appellate ladder,” and explain how missing a single step—like forgetting to object at trial or failing to properly raise federal issues—can shut you out of federal court review down the line. I’ve run into these issues myself while representing clients in federal habeas corpus cases, which is why I’m passionate about making sure you know what to look for and what questions to ask when interviewing appellate lawyers.

I’ll also give you real-world advice: what to ask your lawyer, why it’s crucial to plan several moves ahead, and how failing to build your case the right way from the start can leave you without options when it matters most.

If you’re facing an appeal, or just want to better understand this complex process, you’ll find this episode essential. And as always, if you have any questions or want me to cover a specific topic about appeals—federal, state, or otherwise—head over to LawyerTalkPodcast.com and let me know!

Here are three key takeaways for anyone considering appellate counsel:

Look for True Appellate Experience

Not all lawyers are familiar with the unique nuances and pitfalls of the appellate process. You need someone who understands the “appellate ladder” and what it takes to preserve issues at every stage.

Ask about Federal Issues

Your appellate lawyer must know how to frame your objections as federal constitutional issues—not just state law issues—if you ever want your case considered in federal court (habeas corpus). Missing this step can completely close the door on federal review.

Always Be Thinking Several Moves Ahead

Appeals are like chess. The best lawyers anticipate possible outcomes at every step and ensure all arguments are preserved for future appeals—even if those seem remote.

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

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

I’m tackling a question from Lucy about what’s really going on with Ghislaine Maxwell, Jeffrey Epstein’s infamous associate.

There’s a lot of mystery and speculation swirling around this case—from plea deals and pending appeals to the mechanics of Congressional subpoenas and whether Maxwell might actually decide to spill what she knows. I’ll walk you through the legal nitty-gritty: how prosecutors strike deals with defendants, the real deal behind “queen for a day” letters and proffer agreements, and the reasons why someone in Maxwell’s shoes would or wouldn’t talk.

I’ll break down what protections defendants actually get, how the government handles cooperation and sentences, and what it would really take to get new info out of Maxwell at this stage. If you’ve wondered how these high-profile deals get made, or what power Congress actually has when it comes to compelling testimony, you won’t want to miss this inside look.

Moments

00:00 Maxwell's Legal Battle and Subpoena

03:53 "Proffer Letter Concept Explained"

09:14 Government Deals and Maxwell's Legal Options

11:00 Maxwell's Potential Deal and Truth

Here are 3 key takeaways that shed light on the complexities of these headline-making cases:

• "Queen for a Day" Proffers: Defendants sometimes receive a "proffer letter," which allows them to share information with prosecutors without those statements being used directly against them. But this isn’t immunity—prosecutors can use any leads gained to pursue additional evidence.
• Why Maxwell Might (or Might Not) Cooperate: Despite public pressure, there are still real legal risks for Maxwell in talking, especially while appeals are pending. Unless she’s offered meaningful incentives (like a sentencing reduction) or immunity, there’s little reason for her to share details—especially in a public forum like a Congressional hearing.
• Evaluating Truthfulness in Deals: Even if a defendant agrees to cooperate, prosecutors must vet the information. Deals hinge on truthful, verifiable accounts—anything less could void potential leniency.

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

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