I want to tackle a hot topic that's getting a lot of attention here in Ohio: police qualified immunity. There's been some buzz lately with talk of amending the Ohio constitution to eliminate qualified immunity, and with moves from the Attorney General and even the Ohio Supreme Court nudging this issue closer to the ballot, the debate is really heating up.

I break down what qualified immunity actually is, why it matters for police officers, government workers, and regular folks like us, and what could happen if it gets scrapped. Trust me, there are strong arguments on both sides, and it’s the kind of issue that could seriously change the legal landscape here in Ohio.

I’m not here to take sides today, but I do want to set the stage for a much bigger conversation. I’m planning to bring in some guests soon—lawyers who work on both sides of this debate—so we can really dig deep and talk about what’s at stake.

So if you’ve got questions or thoughts about qualified immunity, shoot them my way. I’m looking forward to having this discussion, and I hope you stick around for what’s sure to be an interesting ride. Let’s get into it, right here on Lawyer Talk.

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

Ever wondered what "en banc review" really means in appellate law? On this episode of Lawyer Talk, I break down this rarely used but powerful legal maneuver in a way that’s both clear and practical.

Here are 3 key takeaways from the conversation:

• En Banc Explained: En banc review refers to a request for the entire appellate court—not just the typical three-judge panel—to re-hear a case. This usually happens when a decision may conflict with other rulings, in-state or statewide.
• When & Why to Request: Lawyers typically seek en banc review when a panel’s decision clashes with other appellate outcomes or when a case has significant legal implications that the whole court should weigh in on.
• Outcomes Can Change: If granted, en banc review can lead to a brand-new decision—sometimes supporting, sometimes overturning, or even fundamentally altering the initial ruling. It’s a strategic last resort when the stakes couldn’t be higher.

If you deal with appeals or just want insight into appellate strategy, this episode is packed with actionable info.

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 hear this question a lot—have Uber and Lyft actually led to fewer drunk driving cases?

Drawing on my years of experience as a DUI defense attorney, I share how rideshare apps have shifted the landscape of drinking and driving, especially among 21-year-olds today.

I also discuss why, even with the best intentions and easy access to Uber and Lyft, people still find themselves in trouble after a few drinks. I tell some real-life stories from my practice and offer practical advice on how to truly avoid an OVI.

So stick around for an honest look at why good decisions can go bad—and what you can do to stay safe.

3 Key Takeaways:

• Technology Doesn’t Override Human Nature: Alcohol impairs the very part of the brain that helps us make rational decisions. Even the best-laid plans to use Uber can unravel after a few drinks.
• Education Matters Most: Younger people, especially those in college, seem more mindful about not drinking and driving—likely thanks to improved education and awareness campaigns, even more so than rideshare availability alone.
• Beware of “One Last Trip”: Many DUI cases happen after people responsibly get home via Uber, but later decide to drive for food, snacks, or late-night plans—still under the influence.

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