On this episode of Lawyer Talk, I’m going off the record and on the air to answer the many questions I’ve been getting about the Tyler Robinson case, which is making headlines for its connection to the Charlie Kirk assassination. I’ll be clearing up some misunderstandings about the evidence—especially when it comes to fingerprints and DNA—and giving you a clearer picture of what the legal process looks like from here.

I’ll also share my take on what it’s really like to defend someone in a high-profile case like this, from dealing with the media circus to the practical challenges lawyers face behind the scenes.

Top Takeaways:

Evidence Scrutiny is Critical:

Defense attorneys always start by dissecting the prosecution's evidence—including DNA, fingerprints, and the context surrounding them. As Steve notes, just because certain evidence is cited in a probable cause affidavit doesn’t make the case airtight; robust discovery and expert analysis are essential.

Taking on Death Penalty Defense is a Massive Undertaking:

These cases can last well over a year and consume significant resources. Most are handled by private lawyers appointed (and underpaid) by the state, not full-time public defenders, which can impact their own legal practices.

Expertise and Resources Make or Break the Case:

Successfully defending a death penalty case often requires applying for court-approved experts in forensics, cell phone data, and beyond. The responsibility is immense—not only for the client, but for the integrity of the justice process.

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