The Path to State Supreme Courts | What's The Appeal?

In this “What’s the Appeal?” episode, I’ll walk you through the ins and outs of getting a case in front of the Ohio Supreme Court, unpacking the crucial difference between correcting mistakes at trial and tackling broader questions of law that really get the justices’ attention.

I’ll explain why not every error at a lower court qualifies for supreme court review, what makes an issue important enough to reach that level, and exactly what lawyers need to argue to give their case a fighting chance. If you’ve ever wondered how cases get to the highest court in the state, what issues matter most, or what happens after you appeal, this episode will give you answers and a behind-the-scenes look at the process.

Here are my top 3 takeaways:

• Not Every Case Makes It Up: The Ohio Supreme Court—and courts like it—aren’t just there to correct mistakes from lower courts. There's a specific process (discretionary review) for cases with broader legal implications to get their attention.
• It's All About the Big Picture: You need to show that your case presents an important rule of law or policy issue. It’s not enough to say there was a simple trial error; you have to prove there’s a bigger constitutional or public interest at stake.
• Strategic Advocacy Matters: When appealing, it’s crucial to frame your argument in a way that highlights why your issue should matter to everyone, not just your client. Reference broader legal trends and current interest (like the US Supreme Court taking up similar issues) to strengthen your case for review.

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