Ed Palermo: Long Island's Trusted Criminal Defense & DWI Lawyer

I handle the full range of criminal defense matters and DWI cases on Long Island. This includes DWI defense (first offense, aggravated DWI, felony DWI, DMV refusal hearings), violent crimes (assault, robbery, weapons offenses), drug offenses, theft crimes, sex crimes, domestic violence, and white-collar offenses. I represent clients in both misdemeanor and felony cases across Nassau County, Suffolk County, and the East End.

You should hire a criminal defense attorney immediately after arrest, or as soon as you become aware you are under investigation. Early representation can significantly impact your case outcome. The first 48 hours after an arrest are particularly critical because evidence can be preserved, witnesses can be interviewed, and police reports can be analyzed before they harden into the prosecution's narrative. I am available 24/7 at (631) 903-3733.

Legal fees vary widely based on the complexity and seriousness of your charges. Misdemeanor cases typically range from $2,500 to $7,500. DWI cases generally range from $3,500 to $15,000. Felony cases requiring extensive trial preparation can range from $10,000 to $50,000 or more depending on the severity of the charges and whether the case goes to trial. I offer free initial consultations to discuss your case and provide transparent pricing.

No. Exercise your right to remain silent and ask for an attorney immediately. Say clearly: "I am invoking my right to remain silent. I want to speak to my lawyer." Do not answer questions, do not explain your side of the story, and do not think you can talk your way out of the situation. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court, whether you are facing DWI charges or other criminal allegations.

Yes. Charges can be dismissed or reduced for many reasons, including insufficient evidence, constitutional violations (illegal search, Miranda violations), witness credibility issues, unreliable breathalyzer results, procedural errors, or successful completion of diversion programs. I review every detail of your case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case and negotiate the best possible outcome.

Your first appearance is the arraignment, which typically occurs within 24 hours of arrest. The judge will inform you of the charges, ask for your plea (typically "not guilty"), and address bail or release conditions. In DWI cases, your license may be suspended at arraignment. In domestic violence cases, an Order of Protection may be issued. Having an experienced attorney at your arraignment can make a significant difference in whether you are released and what conditions are imposed.

Timelines vary based on case complexity and court schedules. Simple misdemeanors may resolve in 3 to 6 months. DWI cases typically resolve within 3 to 6 months. Felony cases can take 6 months to over a year, especially if proceeding to trial. New York's speedy trial statute (CPL 30.30) requires the prosecution to be ready for trial within specific timeframes based on the offense level.

This is one of the most important decisions in your case. The decision depends on the strength of the prosecution's evidence, potential plea benefits (reduced charges, lighter sentencing), and the long-term consequences of a conviction (professional licenses, immigration status, employment, firearm rights). After 31+ years of trying cases on Long Island, I provide an honest assessment of your options and the realistic outcomes of each path.

Nassau and Suffolk are completely separate systems with their own District Attorney's offices, judges, and prosecutorial cultures. Nassau County tends to be more aggressive on felony matters, particularly on crossover crime from New York City. Suffolk County covers a larger area, and Central Islip is the busiest courthouse in New York State. For county-specific defense information, see my Nassau County criminal defense and Suffolk County criminal defense pages.

Your license will typically be suspended at arraignment pending the outcome of your case, though you may be eligible for a conditional license that allows you to drive to work, school, and medical appointments. If you refused the chemical (breath or blood) test, you face a separate DMV penalty: a license revocation of at least one year regardless of whether you are ultimately convicted of DWI, and you have only 15 days to request a DMV refusal hearing to challenge it. For comprehensive information on DWI license consequences, see my Long Island DWI defense page.

Under New York Penal Law, misdemeanors are punishable by up to one year in jail, while felonies carry potential sentences exceeding one year and up to life in prison. Felonies are divided into Classes A through E, with Class A being the most serious. A felony conviction creates a permanent criminal record with significant long-term consequences, including loss of firearm rights and impacts on employment and professional licensing.

I have over 31 years of experience exclusively practicing criminal defense and DWI defense on Long Island. I have been voted Best Lawyer on Long Island 7 times (2019–2024 & 2026). I have deep relationships with prosecutors and judges in both Nassau and Suffolk counties, and I provide 24/7 direct access to clients via my personal cell phone. When you hire me, you get me, not a junior associate. I have tried everything from murder cases to DWI cases and have a strong track record both negotiating and trying cases throughout Long Island.