ReTrial Podcast

Montgomery County Common Pleas Court Specialized dockets are innovative judicial programs designed to address critical issues within the court system, such as substance use, mental health, or veteran status. These dockets aim to provide tailored interventions that prioritize rehabilitation over traditional punitive measures. Extensive research demonstrates that by focusing on the underlying causes of criminal behavior, specialized dockets foster positive outcomes for both individuals and their communities. These programs involve collaboration between the court, treatment providers, and social services, creating a comprehensive support system for participants. This cooperative approach addresses the individual needs of defendants, helps to reduce recidivism, and promotes public safety. It also saves tax dollars by addressing the root cause of repeat criminal offenses. Montgomery County Common Pleas Court, General Division, has five specialized dockets which are discussed in this episode.#BarAssociation #legalhistory #LegalPodcast #DaytonLaw

In September 1975, Lester Imhoff — a prominent Dayton furniture store owner — left work and never came home. What followed would become one of the most explosive criminal cases in Dayton history—  making national news. Abduction. Kidnapping. Murder. One of the biggest trials the city has ever seen. A ransom note assembled from children’s alphabet letters demanded $400,000 — more than $2.5 million in today’s dollars. Special guest, retired Judge Dennis Langer, former Montgomery County First Assistant Prosecuting Attorney.#LegalHistory #TrueCrime #KidnappingCase #NancyGuthrie #SavannahGuthrie

This episode explores the unpredictable world of jury selection—where shocking admissions, awkward moments, and first impressions collide. Through real courtroom stories, it looks at how authenticity, bias, humor, and human instincts might influence who ends up on a jury, and what voir dire can reveal about the people behind the questionnaires. 

On this episode of Retrial Podcast, we dive into a conversation where law and media intersect. Judge Gerald Parker, legal legend Dave Greer, and Dayton’s own James Brown of WHIO discuss the challenges of covering crime and court cases in a society obsessed with quick clips, social media, and sensational headlines.

Judge Newman shares how Constitution Day and Naturalization Ceremonies embody the best of the American story — freedom, civic understanding, and the living promise of the Constitution. Naturalization Ceremonies include people from all over the world who choose to come to Dayton, Ohio and make the Miami Valley their home. These new citizens have followed every step of the legal process and today, they’re being welcomed as Americans. 

Ever wondered what really goes on in probate court? From marriages to adoptions, it’s more than just paperwork—it’s a place where lives are changed. Join us as we meet Judge Dave Brannon and Patricia Hodson, Montgomery County Children’s Services manager, to explore the adoption process, foster care, and how families find their “happily ever after.” Discover the stories behind the courtroom and the dedication of those working to create forever homes.Visit retrialpodcast.com for direct links to watch or listen. #BarAssociation #legalhistory #LegalPodcast 

A conversation at the intersection of law and mental health reveals what really happens behind the scenes of competency hearings and evaluations. With an alarming rise in mental health challenges among defendants, we explore how courts navigate these complex cases. You’ll hear firsthand perspectives from Judges Mary Wiseman, Kimberly Melnick, and Timothy O’Connell, along with expert insights from Dr. Kara Marciani, a board-certified forensic psychologist who explains how evaluations work, why malingering is common, and what has changed in the system over time. Join us for an honest, in-depth look at one of the most pressing issues facing courts today.Visit retrialpodcast.com for direct links to watch or listen. #BarAssociation #legalhistory #LegalPodcast 

In this eye-opening episode of ReTrial Podcast, Judge Gerald Parker and attorney David Greer take listeners on an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office with longtime forensic pathologist Dr. Russell Uptegrove. With more than 8,500 autopsies under his belt, Dr. Uptegrove shares stories from his 21-year career, offers insight into how death investigations unfold, and explains why this work is essential to our justice system. From high-volume case management to unexpected career paths, the conversation unpacks the science, humanity, and humor behind one of the most misunderstood roles in criminal justice. You'll learn how autopsies are performed, what happens at death scenes, and why external exams matter. 

On this episode of the ReTrial Podcast, Judge Gerald Parker and attorney David Greer take the show on the road to explore the world of K-9 policing with Lieutenant Andrew DiSalvo of the Kettering Police Department. With wit, warmth, and a few jokes about aging and gray hair, the hosts dig into what it takes to become a K-9 handler, the importance of voice and tone in dog training, and the deep bond between officer and canine. Lt. DiSalvo shares his journey, from joining the force in 2009 to leading the department’s K-9 program, offering insight into the rigorous selection and training process. Whether you’re passionate about public safety, love dogs, or just enjoy a smart and lively conversation, this episode delivers an engaging look at how our four-legged officers serve and protect our communities.Visit retrialpodcast.com for direct links to watch or listen. #BarAssociation #legalhistory #LegalPodcast

Learn about a lawsuit that prevented a monopoly of computerized legal research and turned Mead Data Central into Lexis-Nexis. A transition into digital. Visit retrialpodcast.com for direct links to watch or listen. #BarAssociation #legalhistory #LegalPodcast 

We take a look at the concept of corporate greed, mergers and acquisitions and a major case in Dayton history that was considered a hostile takeover. Visit retrialpodcast.com for direct links to watch or listen. #BarAssociation #legalhistory #LegalPodcast 

A conversation about the issue of mass incarceration and how we might turn individuals who have committed crimes into productive citizens. Special guest Judge Walter Rice.

We take a look at how the legal system has evolved over the years and what could be removed or added to our current system. Special guests Leon Daidone and John Rion.Visit retrialpodcast.com for direct links to watch or listen. #BarAssociation #legalhistory #LegalPodcast 

Some call it progress, learn about the business of law and the growth of legal service marketing with special guests and marketing icons Attorney Michael Wright and Attorney Doug Mann. #BarAssociation #legalhistory #LegalPodcast

Everyone knows they are going to die. The mercy of death is when you don’t know how or when. We discuss deep questions with special guest Attorney Gary W. Crim. Does the death penalty really stop people from killing? What is it like representing someone who is given the death penalty? #BarAssociation #legalhistory #LegalPodcast 

History tells the story of varying perspectives. Some saw NCR as a Dayton staple and hero in the flood while others did not agree with how they conducted business. Learn more about the role of NCR in Dayton and the Antitrust case. Special guest Brady Kress President and CEO at Dayton History. 

From death threats to a local gangster performing illegal abortions, this episode is full of history on the controversial issue of abortion and demonstrates how the law follows society. 

Go back in time almost 100 years to a case in which a black man was charged with killing a Dayton policeman in 1927.

Moses Jones came to Dayton as its first black attorney in the year 1900. Learn about his career seeking justice for individuals in a racist society and how he planted seeds of the civil rights movement.

Get to know Herb Eikenbary, known as the Ringmaster of Dayton and one of the most memorable lawyers who died in 1974, leaving behind a fund for struggling young lawyers.

Many call John McMahon the greatest lawyer in Dayton's history. His 69-years of active practice started in 1852. John worked with Governor Cox, The Wright Brothers, John Patterson and many other historical figures.

The antitrust case between department store giants, Rikes and Beerman, how they left downtown Dayton for the suburbs and ultimately disappeared.

A discussion about the Dayton school desegregation case that lasted from 1972 to 1975 including the murder of a desegregation specialist. We'll take a look at both sides of the case, their strategy and ultimately the decision that impacts our present-day realities.

A Dayton Bar Association Production – ReTrial Podcast decodes legal history that happened in Dayton, Ohio. These cases, lawyers and stories set the stage for present-day learning across our nation. Hosted by trial attorney & historian, David Greer and Judge Gerald ParkerThis Dayton Bar Association and Dayton Bar Foundation project was funded in part by a grant from the Dayton Legal Heritage Foundation of The Dayton Foundation and by a grant from Jack W. and Sally D. Eichelberger Foundation of The Dayton Foundation.The pilot season consists of six episodes 40-50 minutes in length.