If you’ve ever wondered whether pushing back against police is worth it, or if you’re curious about how to actually make change, you’ll want to hear this one.

This episode of Lawyer Talk is all about when it comes to your rights and run-ins with the police. Steve Palmer tackles the flood of comments he’s been getting lately—some fiery, some thoughtful, and all worth discussing. He breaks down why arguing with cops on the side of the road might not be the best move (hint: it rarely ends well), and why the real fight happens in the courtroom.

From questions about whether the system is just a big money grab, to debates about how much freedom we’re willing to trade for safety, Steve Palmer gets into the nitty-gritty. He even shares why he became a defense lawyer in the first place—it’s not just about the paycheck!

Moments

00:00 Police, Rights, and Systemic Critique

05:48 "System vs. Street Resistance Debate"

06:54 "Comply or Face Consequences"

11:06 "Striving for Better, Not Perfect"

Key Takeaways:

1. The Courtroom Is the Battleground for Rights - Steve Palmer highlights that while asserting your constitutional rights is critical, the safest and most effective place to challenge police overreach is in court—not on the roadside.
2. Change Is Possible—But Imperfect - Our system isn’t perfect and is often influenced by "the money machine." Still, advocating for your rights inside the legal system can drive reform and uphold constitutional protections.
3. Constructive Dialogue Drives Progress - Steve Palmer encourages dissent and debate, stressing that respectful discourse and legal advocacy—not street confrontations—advance our collective cause.

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

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