Explore the legal realities versus TV drama in police interrogations. Learn why attorneys can't simply barge in during questioning.

Whether you’re a true crime fan, a law student, or just someone curious about what really happens behind police station doors, this episode is packed with eye-opening advice and a dash of legal humor.

Welcome back to another episode of Lawyer Talk! Today, Steve Palmer and Troy talk about the legal realities behind the hit TV show "Landman"—specifically, can a fiery defense attorney really burst into a police station and halt an interrogation, just like you see on TV?

Spoiler alert: the real world doesn’t play by Hollywood’s rules.

Drawing from their own legal insight and experience, they break down what really happens when someone is questioned by police, when your right to an attorney actually kicks in, and why your best move might just be to keep quiet.

It's a candid, myth-busting conversation that uncovers the truth about Miranda rights, the right to counsel, and how legal drama often bends (or breaks) the rules for entertainment’s sake.

Here are 3 key takeaways from the episode:

1. Lawyers Can’t Just Burst Into Interrogations: Unlike dramatic TV lawyers, real attorneys can’t force their way into police interview rooms to “save the day.” The police aren’t required to halt questioning just because an attorney shows up.
2. Know When Your Right to Counsel Actually Starts: The right to have a lawyer present usually doesn’t “attach” until formal criminal charges are filed or a preliminary hearing is underway—not simply during a police interview or right after arrest.
3. Best Advice? Stay Quiet: If you find yourself being questioned by the police, follow the golden rule: don’t speak until you’ve talked to a lawyer. You can always request legal representation, and the police must then stop the interrogation.

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 2026 Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law

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