Anyone appealing a conviction should always consider post-conviction strategies and consult lawyers who understand their importance and deadlines.

I take you behind the scenes of Ohio’s post-conviction hearings—a part of the criminal appellate process that’s often misunderstood and, frankly, overlooked.

Building on our previous discussion, I explain what post-conviction petitions are, why they matter, and share my recent experience handling a rare, week-long post-conviction hearing.

I break down the legal standards we have to meet, the importance of expert testimony, and how the landscape for these hearings is shifting in Ohio. I also walk you through what really happens after you score a win in post-conviction court, what appeals might look like, and why post-conviction work can be a make-or-break factor when you’re choosing an attorney.

Whether you’ve got your own case on the line or just want to understand more about what happens after a criminal conviction, I’ve packed this episode with practical insights and real-world advice. Join me as we dig into the nitty-gritty of the appellate process and why timing—and the right legal strategy—matter so much.

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

Think DNA evidence always means someone’s guilty? Think again!

Fresh off a hearing where I examined multiple DNA experts, both for the defense and the prosecution, I want to break down the common misconceptions and hidden complexities surrounding DNA today.

With technology now able to detect just the tiniest traces—sometimes as little as 20 cells—the interpretation of DNA evidence has become far less straightforward than many believe.

I share real-world examples, including cases where innocent people were implicated simply because their DNA was found in unexpected places, often due to accidental transfer.

My main takeaway?

DNA evidence isn't always the slam dunk it's made out to be. It’s more important than ever to bring in experts and scrutinize every detail when DNA becomes a factor in a case.

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'm Steve Palmer, I'll be sharing some of my personal experiences and insights on how incredibly precise court reporters can be, despite the challenges they face.

You'll hear about both the marvelous precision and the occasional horror stories of unreliable transcriptions. I'll also talk about the transformative role of modern technology in this essential part of the legal process.

Whether you're interested in how flawed records can be corrected or the significance of genuine communication in the courtroom, this episode has something for you.

Here are some key takeaways:

• Remarkable Accuracy: Transcripts are incredibly accurate, with court reporters using real-time transcription techniques. Most of the time, they capture statements with precision.
• Handling Errors: In rare cases where transcripts might be flawed, there are procedures in place to ensure justice isn't compromised. From re-agreements among parties to supplementing records, there are systems to address discrepancies.
• Impact of Technology: We've come a long way from jotted notes and shorthand. Modern technology guarantees detailed records of court proceedings, but human elements like court reporter expertise remain crucial.

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