Whether you agree or disagree, there’s a lot to unpack and discuss about your rights—and the realities—during a traffic stop. Let’s get into it.

I sit down with law student Troy Hendrickson to tackle a question I’ve noticed popping up everywhere on social media: Do you really have to get out of your car when the police tell you to? After watching numerous viral videos of people refusing officers’ orders during traffic stops, I decided it was time to demystify the legal history behind this scenario—especially the Supreme Court case Pennsylvania v. Mimms.

I explain why, yes, you do have to follow police instructions in these situations (even if you disagree), and why the courtroom—not the side of the road—is where you should fight any questionable police conduct. Along the way, Troy and I explore the wider issues: officer safety, misunderstandings about the law, and the rise of misinformation online.

Here are 3 key takeaways you should know:

• You must comply if ordered out of your vehicle. Thanks to the Supreme Court decision in Pennsylvania v. Mims (1977), police can lawfully order you out of your car during a stop, even for minor violations.
• The fight happens in court—not on the roadside. Challenging a police order (even if you think it’s unfair or unlawful) on the street will result in arrest or worse. “You’re going to lose that fight…and a window.”
• Understanding why is crucial. These rules are based on “officer safety” and the structure of the rule of law. If you think your rights were violated, work with an attorney after the fact.

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

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