In this episode of Lawyer Talk, I am breaking down a hot topic: the Supreme Court case, Snyder vs United States, and a listener's big question on bribery.

Ever wondered what really counts as a bribe? Or how gratuities fit into the whole mix?

I am here to clear up the confusion and make sense of it all, without diving into the political rabbit hole. I talk about how the law defines bribery and why sometimes things aren't as straightforward as they seem.

https://www.scotusblog.com/case-files/cases/snyder-v-united-states/

Here are some key takeaways from the discussion:

• Bribery vs. Gratuity: Understand the critical distinctions between a bribe (an influencing payment made before an action) and a gratuity (a gesture of gratitude after an action). The nuances are vital for legal definitions.
• Statutory Interpretation: The importance of accurately interpreting the law is highlighted. In Snyder vs. U.S., the Supreme Court ruled that the conduct didn't fit the statutory definition of bribery under federal law, emphasizing the consequences of prosecutorial decisions.
• Rigorous Ethics Compliance: The conversation sheds light on how strict ethics rules are, especially in legal and government spheres, prohibiting even small gestures like buying a Coke for a public official.

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