How Far Can the President’s Pardon Power Go? | Lawyer Talk Q&A

Whether you’re curious about famous cases, the restoration of rights, or the possibility of pardoning undiscovered crimes, this episode has all the answers. Welcome to another episode of Lawyer Talk! In today's Q&A-style session, host Steve Palmer explains the intriguing topic of presidential pardons. Drawing from questions submitted by listeners and recent headlines, Steve explores the true extent of the president's pardon power—what it covers, what it doesn’t, and the notable differences between federal and state convictions. With a blend of historical perspective and legal insight, you’ll learn how past presidents have used this authority, the constitutional roots of the power, and the real-world implications for those who receive pardons. Grab your headphones as we demystify presidential pardons here on Lawyer Talk!Here are the top three takeaways:Presidential Pardons Are Limited to Federal Convictions - The U.S. President cannot pardon state court convictions (e.g., cases from New York or Ohio); the power only applies to federal offenses.Rights Restoration—Not Expungement - A pardon restores rights lost due to conviction (firearms, voting, etc.), but doesn’t erase the record like an expungement.Scope of Pardon Power: Broad, But Not Boundless - Courts have affirmed the President’s wide-ranging ability to pardon, but there’s lingering legal uncertainty around pardons for crimes “not yet discovered” or future offenses—especially given recent actions.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 Mentioned in this episode:Circle 270 Media Podcast ConsultantsCircle 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