Ed Palermo: Long Island's Trusted Criminal Defense & DWI Lawyer
31+ Years Defending Long Island Residents Across Nassau, Suffolk & The Hamptons
Authored & Legally Reviewed by: Edward Palermo, Esq. | Last Verified: June 2026
Edward Palermo is a premier Long Island criminal defense and DWI attorney with 31+ years of dedicated trial practice across Nassau County, Suffolk County, and the East End. A 7-time Best Lawyer on Long Island (2019-2024 & 2026). Lifelong defender. Never a prosecutor.
I am Ed Palermo, and for over 31 years, I have stood between my clients and the state. I have never been a prosecutor. I have never carried a DA’s office credential. My entire career has been dedicated exclusively to defending people accused of crimes and DWI offenses across Long Island under New York Penal Law and New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1192. When the government builds a case against you, your career, your freedom, and your future are all at stake. I bring three decades of pure criminal defense experience to every client, every case, every day.
I am a 7-Time Best Lawyer on Long Island (2019-2024 & 2026), a New York Law Journal Trailblazer Award winner, and the founder of Palermo Law P.L.L.C. with three offices serving clients across Long Island. More importantly, I personally answer every client call. When you hire me, you get me. Not a junior associate. Not a paralegal. Not an intake coordinator. Me, directly, from your first call to the final resolution of your case.
I will answer all of your questions. I will explain the criminal charges you face. I will explain potential strategies to win your case. New clients ALWAYS feel better after they speak to me.
Ed Palermo
Why clients choose Ed
One attorney. Your case, start to finish.
7-Time Best Lawyer & Highly Rated
Featured as a New York Law Journal Trailblazer and maintained a "Superb" AVVO Rating for over a decade. Voted 7-Time Winner of the Best of Long Island.
Unrivaled Criminal Trial Advocacy
I personally defend your freedom with over 31 years of exclusive criminal trial experience. I do everything in my power to dismantle the prosecution's evidence and secure a "Not Guilty" verdict.
Direct Access To Your Attorney
Every client receives my personal cell phone number. You will never be handed off to a junior associate; you deal directly with me from your initial arrest to the final resolution of your case.
Text Ed Palermo Personally Today
We understand this is an overwhelming time. I am available 24/7 to provide the certainty you need. Text or call me directly right now at (631) 903-3733
My Two Primary Practice Areas
I focus my entire practice on two main areas. For comprehensive information on either, see my dedicated practice area pages:
Long Island Criminal Defense
I represent clients facing all types of criminal charges across Nassau County, Suffolk County, and the East End, including violent crimes, drug offenses, theft, domestic violence, sex crimes, weapons charges, and white-collar offenses.
Long Island DWI Defense
I defend clients facing all DWI charges including first-time DWI, aggravated DWI, felony DWI, and DMV refusal hearings across every Long Island court.
For county-specific guidance, see my dedicated pages on Nassau County criminal defense, Nassau County DWI, Suffolk County criminal defense, Suffolk County DWI, East End criminal defense, and Hamptons DWI defense.
Key Takeaway:
I am Ed Palermo, a Long Island criminal defense and DWI attorney with 31+ years of exclusive trial experience. I personally handle every case from start to finish. For specific information on criminal defense or DWI cases, visit my dedicated practice area pages where I cover each topic in depth.
Criminal Defense Attorneys in Suffolk County
Facing criminal charges in Suffolk County can put your freedom and future at risk. We regularly defend clients in Hauppauge court, handling everything from misdemeanors to serious felony charges. Our focus is protecting your rights and positioning your case for the strongest possible outcome.
Learn MoreCriminal Defense Lawyers in Nassau County
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Nassau County, experienced legal representation matters. From Westbury court appearances to negotiations with prosecutors, we fight to minimize consequences and guide you through every step of the criminal justice process.
Learn MoreYour Long Island Criminal Defense Law Experts
Serving clients across Long Island—including Suffolk and Nassau Counties—we provide aggressive, strategic criminal defense backed by deep local court knowledge. When your reputation, record, and freedom are on the line, you need a defense built for the realities of Long Island courts.
Learn MoreCriminal Defense Experts for the Hamptons
If you are facing criminal charges in the Hamptons, experienced legal representation matters. We defend clients throughout Southampton, East Hampton, and surrounding communities, working to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome.
Learn More
Facing a Criminal or DWI Arrest on Long Island? You Need Certainty, Not Guilt.
Featured Trial Result: Burglary Three Strikes Case NOT GUILTY VERDICT
I represented a man charged with burglary facing a mandatory life sentence under New York’s three strikes rule. The prosecution refused to negotiate, certain they could secure a conviction. I tried the case to verdict, and after careful jury selection and aggressive cross-examination, the jury returned a NOT GUILTY verdict. My client was immediately released from custody after months in jail awaiting trial.
This verdict stands alongside other high-stakes Long Island trial victories including First Degree Assault, First Degree Robbery, First Degree Rape, sexual abuse charges, and aggravated DWI cases. When prosecutors refuse to negotiate and your future is on the line, you need an experienced trial attorney who has actually tried serious cases to verdict.
Notable Criminal and DWI Results
Edward represented man charges with Burglary facing life sentence under 3 strikes rule
Edward Palermo tried the case and jury returned a verdict of not-guilty and client immediately released from custody
Medical Doctor charged with DWI in Suffolk County
Suffolk County DWI Lawyer Edward Palermo negotiates reduction to simple traffic infraction to insure no negative impact on Doctor’s career.
Pennsylvania business man charged with DWI on Long Island
Edward Palermo negotiates a reduced charge of only a single traffic violation
Edward Palermo represented am man charged with sexual abuse on Long Island. Client faced up to 7 years in prison
Edward tried the case and the jury acquitted the client of sex abuse charges. Client's freedom protected.
Edward Palermo represented a client charged with criminal sale of a controlled subject in 1st degree. Client faced decades in prison.
Edward found flaws in evidence and convinced district attorney to reduce charge to misdemeanor with no jail and no probation
Client charged with aggravated DWI
Client is a financial professional and his future career advancement was in jeopardy if convicted of this serious misdemeanor crime. The Suffolk County District Attorney VERY RARELY agrees to reduce such a charge because of the elevated Blood Alcohol Content finding by police. Suffolk County DWI Lawyer Edward Palermo negotiated an extremely favorable resolution which will lead to the reduction of the aggravated DWI to a simple traffic infraction after 1 year of good behavior by the client. His professional license and future career opportunities are secure.
Edward represented a client charged with Robbery in the first degree on Long Island
Edward tried the case and a Long Island jury found his client Not Guilty
Edward represented a former police officer charged with leaving scene of fatal accident on Long Island
Edward negotiated a very favorable disposition for client. Case subject of story in Newsday focused on lenient results in Leaving the scene cases.
Meet Ed Palermo
Meet Ed Palermo
I have dedicated over 31 years to criminal defense, representing more than 2,000 Long Island residents facing charges ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies. My practice focuses exclusively on high-stakes criminal trial defense and DWI defense across Nassau County, Suffolk County, and the East End.
I appear regularly in the Nassau County Court in Mineola defending serious felony indictments, the First District Court in Hempstead handling misdemeanor offenses, the Cohalan Court Complex in Central Islip handling Suffolk County misdemeanors and lower felonies, the Suffolk County Court in Riverhead for serious felony and DWI matters, and local village and town justice courts across the East End from Westhampton through Montauk. I know the prosecutors, the judges, and the distinct court culture in each jurisdiction. That knowledge comes only from decades of consistent daily courtroom presence.
My trial experience matters. I have secured not guilty verdicts in complex felony cases including First Degree Assault, First Degree Robbery, Second Degree Burglary under the Three Strikes Law, First Degree Rape, felony sexual assault, and DWI accidents. I have negotiated favorable, non-custodial outcomes in cases where clients faced state prison time. I have successfully gotten serious felony charges reduced and dismissed when prosecutors were certain they held airtight cases.
But what I am most proud of is how my clients feel after our first conversation. That initial crushing wave of panic transforms into absolute confidence once they realize they have an experienced advocate who knows exactly how to dismantle the District Attorney’s case.
Education:
- Hofstra University – B.A. (1990)
- Hofstra University School of Law – J.D. (1994)
Court Admissions:
- All New York State Courts
- U.S. District Court, Eastern District of New York (EDNY)
- U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York (SDNY)
Professional Recognition:
- 7-Time Best Lawyer on Long Island (2019-2024 & 2026)
- New York Law Journal Trailblazer Award (2019)
- AVVO Rating “Superb” for over a decade
- National Trial Lawyers Top 100
- National Association of Distinguished Counsel Top One Percent
- Member, National College for DUI Defense
Learn more about my background and approach on my attorney profile page.
Testimonials
"...very hard working and did his best to get me a favorable outcome."
I hired attorney Ed Palermo when I was facing robbery charges last year. He was very hard working and did his best to get me a favorable outcome. Thank you, Ed!
Gabrielle S.
"Ed Palermo is your best option."
Attorney Palermo was my domestic violence defense lawyer when I was accused of domestic violence. I had a really hard time when I was charged but attorney Palermo was there to make the process easier. There's no one else I would recommend. If you are facing domestic violence charges in New York, Ed Palermo is your best option.
Jack B.
"He is extremely sharp in court..."
I had reverently used Ed Palermo as my attorney in a criminal case. Was extremely pleased with the outcome. He is extremely sharp in court and reached the exact outcome we had discussed prior. I would strongly recommend to anyone.
Billy P.
"So grateful!"
Having attorney Ed Palermo as my defense attorney was an amazing experience. He knew the law inside and out and kept me updated throughout my case. So grateful!
Richie W.
"Miracle worker and such a gentleman."
I searched for a lawyer for a friend of mine and hands down Ed is the Best lawyer on Long Island. The Best!!!!!!! I’d refer him to anyone. Miracle worker and such a gentleman.
Catherine F.
"... took care of me through every stage."
Ed guided and took care of me through every stage. Any question I had or concern he would explain the situation, options and how we overcome it to resolve the best outcome for me.
Ed H.
Online Ratings
Why Clients Choose Me
The Long Island criminal defense market is crowded. There are hundreds of attorneys who claim to handle criminal cases and DWI matters. Choosing the right one for your situation can feel overwhelming when you are already dealing with the stress of an arrest. Here is what actually sets my practice apart from the competition.
Lifelong Defender, Never a Prosecutor
Most Long Island criminal defense attorneys spent years prosecuting before switching sides. I never did. My entire 31-year career has been on the defense side, which means I think like a defender, I strategize like a defender, and I fight like a defender. I have never put anyone in a cage, and I never will. When you hire a former prosecutor, you are hiring someone whose professional development was rooted in convicting people. When you hire me, you get someone whose entire identity is built around protecting clients from those exact prosecutors.
Direct Personal Access 24/7
Every client receives my personal cell phone number. You text me directly, you call me directly, and I respond directly. No paralegals screening your calls. No junior associates handling your case. No receptionists telling you the attorney will call you back next Tuesday. Criminal arrests do not happen on a business hour schedule, and neither does my availability.
Trial-Ready Approach to Every Case
Most criminal defense attorneys negotiate from a position of weakness. They prepare for trial as a last resort. I prepare every case as if it will go to trial from day one. This trial-ready mindset gives us tremendous leverage in plea negotiations because prosecutors know I am ready to fight. I have secured not guilty verdicts in cases prosecutors thought were unwinnable.
Deep Long Island Courthouse Knowledge
Over 31 years, I have built relationships with judges, prosecutors, and court personnel throughout Long Island. I know which Nassau County prosecutors will consider reductions and which ones never budge. I know which Suffolk County judges respond to mitigation arguments and which ones impose mandatory sentences. I know how each East End town court operates. This is not theoretical knowledge from a textbook. This comes from showing up to court every single day for three decades. For detailed information on county-specific practice, see my Nassau County, Suffolk County, and East End pages.
Focused Practice on Criminal Defense and DWI
I am a criminal defense and DWI defense attorney. That is all I do. I do not handle personal injury cases. I do not handle family law cases. I do not handle real estate transactions. My entire practice is dedicated exclusively to criminal trial defense. This focus matters because criminal defense work demands specialized knowledge of constitutional law, criminal procedure, evidence rules, jury selection, and trial strategy that general practitioners simply do not develop.
What My Clients Say
“I hired attorney Ed Palermo when I was facing robbery charges last year. He was very hard working and did his best to get me a favorable outcome. Thank you, Ed!”
– Gabrielle S. (Google Review)
“Attorney Palermo was my domestic violence defense lawyer when I was accused of domestic violence. I had a really hard time when I was charged but attorney Palermo was there to make the process easier. There’s no one else I would recommend. If you are facing domestic violence charges in New York, Ed Palermo is your best option.”
– Jack B. (Google Review)
“I had recently used Ed Palermo as my attorney in a criminal case. Was extremely pleased with the outcome. He is extremely sharp in court and reached the exact outcome we had discussed prior. I would strongly recommend to anyone.”
– Billy P. (Google Review)
“I searched for a lawyer for a friend of mine and hands down Ed is the Best lawyer on Long Island. The Best! I’d refer him to anyone. Miracle worker and such a gentleman.”
– Catherine F. (Google Review)
“Ed guided and took care of me through every stage. Any question I had or concern he would explain the situation, options and how we overcome it to resolve the best outcome for me.”
– Ed H. (Google Review)
CLICK HERE TO TEXT MY PERSONAL CELL: (631) 903-3733
How My Practice Works
When you contact me, you work directly with me from day one. Not an intake coordinator. Not a case manager. Not a paralegal. Me. I will listen to what happened, explain what you are facing in terms you can understand, and outline a defense strategy that protects your future.
What Happens When You Hire Me
From the moment you call or text, you work directly with me. I will listen to what happened. I will ask the right questions. I will explain what you are actually facing in terms you can understand. I will not lecture you. I will not judge you. I will not pass blame. My job is to take the weight of the state off your shoulders and to build a defense between you and the prosecution.
Then I get to work. I thoroughly review the charges, analyze the police reports, and scrutinize whatever evidence the prosecution claims to have. We talk through your legal options honestly, including what is strong about your case and what is not. I explain what happens at each court appearance, what the prosecution needs to prove, and what defenses we can raise. Then we execute the strategy that protects your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of cases does Ed Palermo handle?
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.
When should I hire a criminal defense attorney on Long Island?
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.
How much does a criminal defense or DWI lawyer cost on Long Island?
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 charges and whether the case goes to trial. I offer free initial consultations to discuss your case and provide transparent pricing.
Should I talk to police if I am arrested on Long Island?
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.
Can criminal or DWI charges be dismissed on Long Island?
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.
What happens at my first court appearance on Long Island?
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.
How long does a criminal or DWI case take on Long Island?
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.
Should I plead guilty or go to trial?
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 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.
What is the difference between Nassau and Suffolk County courts?
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.
Will I lose my license after a DWI arrest on Long Island?
Your license will typically be suspended at arraignment pending the outcome of your case. However, you may be eligible for a conditional license that allows you to drive to work, school, and medical appointments. If you refused the chemical test, the 15-day DMV rule may work in your favor. For comprehensive information on DWI license consequences, see my Long Island DWI defense page.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in New York?
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. Felony convictions create permanent criminal records with significant long-term consequences including loss of voting rights, firearm rights, employment opportunities, and professional licenses.
Why choose Ed Palermo for my Long Island criminal case?
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. 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.
Free Initial Consultation
If you have been arrested or charged with any criminal offense or DWI anywhere on Long Island, contact me immediately. I offer free initial consultations and I answer my own phone. If I am in court when you call, I will return your call as soon as I am out. Time matters in criminal cases. Evidence gets stale. Witnesses become unavailable. Procedural deadlines pass. The sooner I get involved, the more I can do to protect your rights and your future.
Three Offices Across Long Island
Suffolk County Office
1300 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Suite 320
Hauppauge, NY 11788
(631) 265-1052
Nassau County Office
1539 Franklin Avenue, Suite 104
Mineola, NY 11501
(516) 280-2160
East Hampton Office
9 Willow Lane
East Hampton, NY 11937
(631) 265-1051
CLICK HERE TO TEXT MY CELL: (631) 903-3733
Legal Authority & Editorial Review: This page was authored and legally reviewed by Edward Palermo, Esq., founder of Palermo Law P.L.L.C. With over 31 years of dedicated Long Island criminal defense and DWI practice, Mr. Palermo brings specialized expertise in trial defense across Nassau County Court, Suffolk County Court, the Cohalan Court Complex, and East End justice courts. Recognized as a 7-time Best Lawyer on Long Island (2019-2024 & 2026). Lifelong defender. Never a prosecutor. Page status verified: June 2026.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What types of cases does a Long Island criminal defense lawyer handle?
A Long Island criminal defense lawyer handles a wide range of charges including DWI/DUI, assault, drug offenses, theft crimes, weapons charges, sex crimes, domestic violence, and white-collar crimes. They represent clients in both misdemeanor and felony cases throughout Nassau County, Suffolk County, and the Hamptons, working to protect your rights and minimize consequences at every stage of the criminal justice process.
How much does a criminal defense or DWI lawyer cost on Long Island?
Legal fees vary based on the complexity and seriousness of your charges. Simple misdemeanors typically cost $2,500-$5,000, while serious felonies or aggravated DWI cases requiring extensive trial preparation can range from $7,500-$25,000 or more. Most attorneys offer free initial consultations to discuss your case and provide transparent pricing. When your freedom is on the line, investing in experienced local representation is one of the most important decisions you can make.
Should I talk to police if I'm arrested on Long Island?
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, explain your side of the story, or think you can talk your way out of the situation. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court, whether you're facing DWI charges or other criminal allegations.
Can criminal charges or DWI charges be dismissed on Long Island?
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. An experienced attorney will review every detail of your case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case and negotiate the best possible outcome.
What happens at my first court appearance on Long Island?
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 immediately. 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're released and what conditions are imposed.
How long does a criminal or DWI case take on Long Island?
It depends on the complexity of the case and whether it goes to trial. Simple misdemeanors may be resolved in 2-4 months. DWI cases typically resolve within 3-6 months. Felony cases can take 6 months to over a year, especially if going to trial. The timeline depends on court scheduling, whether you're in custody, the complexity of discovery, and whether the case goes to trial.
Should I plead guilty or go to trial?
This is one of the most important decisions you'll make in your case. You need to consider the strength of the prosecution's evidence, potential plea benefits (reduced charges, lighter sentencing), and long-term consequences of a conviction (professional licenses, immigration status, employment). An experienced attorney can guide you through this decision, leveraging decades of experience to assess the evidence, negotiate favorable plea offers, or fight for an acquittal at trial, ensuring a strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
What's the difference between Nassau and Suffolk County courts?
Nassau and Suffolk are completely separate systems. Each has its own District Attorney's office with different practices and guidelines. Nassau County tends to be more aggressive, especially on felony matters, due to concerns about cross-border crime from NYC. Suffolk County covers a larger area and Central Islip is the busiest courthouse in New York State. You need an attorney who knows both systems and understands how prosecutors and judges operate in each jurisdiction.
Will I lose my license after a DWI arrest on Long Island?
Your license will typically be suspended at arraignment pending the outcome of your case. However, you may be eligible for a conditional license that allows you to drive to work, school, and medical appointments. If you refused the chemical test, you face automatic one-year license revocation regardless of whether you are eventually convicted of DWI. You have only 15 days to request a DMV refusal hearing to challenge this administrative penalty. Learn more on my Long Island DWI page or just call me.
Why choose Ed Palermo for my Long Island criminal case?
Ed Palermo has over 31 years of experience exclusively practicing criminal defense on Long Island. He's been voted Best Lawyer on Long Island 7 times (2019-2026), has deep relationships with prosecutors and judges in both Nassau and Suffolk counties, and provides 24/7 direct access to clients via his personal cell phone. When you hire Ed, you get Ed—not a junior associate. He's tried everything from murder cases to DWI cases and has an excellent track record both negotiating and trying cases throughout Long Island.
Honors & Recognition
