Whether you’re interested in criminal law or just want to know how timing can make or break a case, this episode delivers answers in a way that’s both accessible and engaging.

Welcome back to Lawyer Talk! In this episode, host Steve Palmer and law student Troy Henricksen dive into a thought-provoking legal question from a listener: Can someone file charges seven years after an incident occurred?

The conversation explores the complexities of statutes of limitations, who can actually bring criminal charges, and why delayed justice is such a tricky subject.

Along the way, Steve Palmer and Troy Henricksen break down the differences between civil and criminal cases, how exceptions work for serious crimes like murder and rape, and the challenges that come with bringing old cases to court.

Here are 3 key takeaways from their discussion:

1. Statutes of Limitations Matter: Most criminal charges must be filed within a specific time frame set by law. For example, in Ohio, most felonies carry a 6-year limitation, but serious crimes like murder or some types of sexual assault may have no limit at all.
2. Discovery of the Crime is Key: The clock doesn't always start ticking when the crime happens. Sometimes, it starts when the crime is discovered or should have been reasonably discovered—especially true for cases involving hidden offenses like fraud.
3. Defendants’ Rights Are Still Protected: Even if a case is technically timely, defense attorneys can argue that a long delay in prosecution causes unfair prejudice—like lost evidence or missing witnesses—which can become a powerful part of the defense.

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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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