30+ Years Fighting DWI Cases in Southampton
I have defended hundreds of DWI cases in the Southampton area. I know the local police enforcement patterns, the court procedures, and how to challenge breathalyzer results and field sobriety tests.
2,000+ DWI and Criminal Cases
From DWI arrests on Route 27, County Road 39, Main Street to other criminal charges, I have successfully defended thousands of cases in Southampton and throughout Suffolk County.
Direct Access to Your Attorney
When you hire me, you get my personal cell phone number: (631) 903-3733. I am available 24/7 because I know criminal charges do not happen on a schedule.
Local Southampton Court Knowledge
Southampton is unique—summer population swells, upscale retail and restaurants. I understand the local enforcement patterns and court procedures that affect your case.
I will answer all of your questions. I will explain the DWI charges you face. I will explain potential strategies to win your case. New clients ALWAYS feel better after they speak to me.
- Ed Palermo
Southampton DWI Lawyer
If you have been arrested for DWI in Southampton, you need an experienced DWI defense attorney who knows the Southampton Town Justice Court and understands the aggressive enforcement in this prestigious community. I am Ed Palermo, and I have spent over 30 years successfully defending DWI cases in Southampton.
Southampton is one of the most affluent communities in the country, but it also has some of the most aggressive DWI enforcement on Long Island. The Southampton Town Police Department maintains a visible presence throughout the town, with concentrated patrols in the village, along Route 27, and near restaurants, clubs, and social venues. Summer checkpoints are common.
A DWI conviction in Southampton carries the same serious penalties as anywhere in New York: license revocation, substantial fines, mandatory ignition interlock device, increased insurance rates, and potential jail time. For professionals and business owners, the collateral consequences can be devastating.
If you are facing criminal charges beyond DWI in Southampton, visit my Southampton Criminal Defense page.
Aggravated DWI — NOT GUILTY at Trial
Client charged with aggravated DWI and additional violations with a motor vehicle accident in Nassau County. Edward Palermo scheduled the matter for trial before The Honorable Joseph Girardi of the Nassau County First District Court. First, Edward was able to obtain dismissal of the additional violations after motion during the trial and the client was then found NOT GUILTY of the aggravated DWI charge after trial. All charges dismissed and client, who is a teacher, was able to resume his life and career with a clean record. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Notable Verdicts & Results
First Degree Robbery - Acquittal At Trial
Client accused of gunpoint First Degree Robbery facing up to 25 years in state prison. Convinced a Suffolk County jury to acquit on all charges.
Second Degree Burglary - Not Guilty Verdict
Client charged with violent Second Degree Burglary faced three strikes rule and life imprisonment. Tried the case and convinced Suffolk County jury client was not guilty. Client immediately released after 8 months in jail awaiting trial.
Marijuana First Degree & Weapons Charges – Reduced to Misdemeanor, No Jail
Client charged with Criminal Possession of Marijuana First Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon Second Degree in Suffolk County Supreme Court. Faced decade+ in prison with $1 million bail. Got bail reduced to $400,000, marijuana charge dismissed, negotiated to misdemeanor with no jail and no probation. Cash seized at arrest returned to client.
Assault - Case Dismissed
Client arrested for assault after violent altercation. Secured release on low bail and the matter was ultimately dismissed. Case reported on News 12, WABC, and WCBS.
First Degree Rape - Acquittal At Trial
Represented two clients charged with First Degree Rape, each facing up to 25 years in state prison. Trial in Suffolk County Supreme Court. Both clients acquitted of all charges.
Federal Fraud & Bribery – Sentence Reduced From 20 Years to 6 Months
President of international shipping company faced 20 years in federal prison. Negotiated result where client served only 6 months in halfway house, nighttime only, allowing him to continue working at his company.
Leaving Scene of Fatal Accident– Probation Only
Medical doctor charged with leaving scene of accident with fatality. Faced up to 4 years in state prison. Convinced judge to sentence to probation without any jail time.
Meet Ed Palermo
Why Choose Edward Palermo for Your DWI Defense?
Your Trusted Southampton DWI Lawyer
When facing a DWI charge in Southampton, you need more than just a lawyer—you need an advocate who understands the science behind DWI cases, the local court system, and how to fight for the best possible outcome. I am Edward Palermo, a DWI defense attorney with over 30 years of experience defending Long Islanders charged with impaired driving.
I have successfully represented thousands of clients facing DWI charges. My approach is straightforward: move fast to protect you from avoidable mistakes, pressure-test the prosecution’s case early, and fight aggressively for the best possible outcome.
Testimonials
"...very hard working and did his best to get me a favorable outcome."0
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 Choose Ed Palermo as Your Southampton DWI Lawyer?
When facing a DWI charge in Southampton, you need more than just a lawyer — you need an advocate who understands the science behind DWI cases, the local court system, and how to fight for the best possible outcome. I am Edward Palermo, a DWI defense attorney with over 30 years of experience defending Long Islanders charged with impaired driving.
I have handled every type of DWI case — from first offense DWAI to aggravated DWI to felony DWI with prior convictions — earning a perfect 10 “Superb” rating from AVVO and recognition as a New York Law Journal Trailblazer. I have secured dismissals, reductions to non-criminal traffic infractions, and not guilty verdicts in DWI cases — including cases where the District Attorney recommended jail time and cases where clients faced career-ending consequences if convicted.
My clients get my personal cell phone number for 24/7 access. DWI cases move fast — between arraignment, DMV hearings, and court appearances — and you deserve an attorney who is there when you need answers.
Facing Other Criminal Charges in Southampton?
If you are facing criminal charges other than DWI in Southampton, I can help. Visit my Southampton Criminal Defense page to learn how I defend clients charged with assault, drug offenses, theft, and other crimes in the East End.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I lose my license after a DWI arrest in Southampton?
Yes. Your license can be suspended at arraignment and again if convicted. Refusing a chemical test triggers an automatic one-year revocation through the DMV, separate from criminal penalties. I fight to protect your driving privileges at both the criminal court and DMV hearings simultaneously.
Where will my Southampton DWI case be heard?
Most DWI cases are heard at Southampton Town Justice Court on Jackson Avenue in Hampton Bays. Arrests within Southampton Village may go to Southampton Village Justice Court on Windmill Lane. Felony DWI charges may be transferred to Suffolk County Court in Riverhead. I appear regularly in all of these courts.
How long does a DWI stay on my record in New York?
A DWI conviction remains on your criminal record permanently unless eligible for sealing. On your driving record, a DWI counts as a "prior" for 10 years — meaning a second DWI within 10 years becomes a felony. I work to avoid convictions altogether or negotiate reductions that minimize the long-term impact on your record and your life.
I was arrested for DWI in Southampton but live out of state. What should I do?
This is common, especially during summer. You need a local attorney who knows the Southampton court system. I can handle most court appearances on your behalf, minimizing the trips you need to make back to New York. Contact me immediately so all deadlines — including the DMV refusal hearing deadline — are met.
Should I plead guilty to a DWI in Southampton?
Almost never without consulting an experienced DWI attorney first. Many DWI cases have viable defenses — illegal traffic stops, improperly administered field sobriety tests, uncalibrated breath testing equipment, and procedural violations. Even when evidence seems strong, an experienced attorney can often negotiate a reduction to a lesser charge that avoids the most serious consequences.
Honors & Recognition
