Award Winning & Highly Rated
I was featured as a Trailblazer by the prestigious New York Law Journal in 2019 and have a perfect 10.0 Superb rating from AVVO. I have also been voted Best Lawyer on Long Island 5 consecutive years.
There is no Lawyer fighting harder than me!
I treasure every single one of my clients and treat every case as if it were my own family member. I pride myself on fighting for the underdog and I will fight for you.
31+ Years Experience
Since graduating from Hofstra Law School in 1994, I have successfully handled more than 2,000 criminal cases ranging from minor violations to serious felonies.
24/7 Personal Accessibility
When you hire me, you get my personal cell phone number. I am available to my clients when they need me most, because I understand that legal emergencies do not happen during business hours.
Commack DWI Lawyer
Experienced Commack DWI Defense Attorney
If you have been arrested for DWI in Commack, you need an experienced defense attorney who understands New York drunk driving laws. As a Suffolk County DWI lawyer with over 31 years of experience, I have successfully defended hundreds of clients facing DWI charges throughout Commack.
Commack is a thriving suburban community in the Town of Smithtown. Whether you were stopped on Jericho Turnpike, the Northern State Parkway, or elsewhere in Commack, the consequences of a DWI conviction can be severe.
Since graduating from Hofstra Law School in 1994, I have handled more than 2,000 criminal cases, including hundreds of DWI matters. When you hire me, you get my personal cell phone number and 24/7 accessibility.
If you have been arrested for DWI in Commack, time is critical. Contact me today at (631) 265-1052 for a free consultation.
Related Services:
Case Results
DWI - Northern State
Dismissed
Client stopped on Northern State Parkway. We challenged the stop and charges were dismissed.
Aggravated DWI
Reduced
Client with high BAC. We negotiated to standard DWI.
DWI Refusal
Not Guilty
Client refused breathalyzer. We secured a not guilty verdict.
Second Offense DWI
Misdemeanor
Client facing felony. We secured misdemeanor treatment.
DWI with Accident
DWAI
Client in accident. We negotiated a plea to DWAI.
DWI Drugs
Dismissed
Client charged with prescription drug DWI. Case dismissed.
Leandra's Law DWI
Misdemeanor
Client facing felony. We negotiated a misdemeanor plea.
Underage DWI
Violation
Underage driver charged. We negotiated a traffic violation.
Meet Ed Palermo
Meet Ed Palermo – Your Commack DWI Defense Lawyer
I am Edward Palermo, a Suffolk County criminal defense and DWI attorney with over three decades of experience. Since graduating from Hofstra Law School in 1994, I have dedicated my career to defending individuals facing DWI charges.
Over the past 31 years, I have successfully handled more than 2,000 criminal cases, including hundreds of DWI matters. You can reach me directly at (631) 903-3733.
I have been named Best Lawyer on Long Island for five consecutive years and maintain a 10.0 AVVO Rating.
When you choose me as your Commack DWI attorney, you get personal attention, 24/7 accessibility, proven results, and aggressive defense.
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.
Commack DWI Defense
Understanding DWI Charges in Commack
The Commack DWI Enforcement Environment
Commack presents a unique environment for DWI enforcement. As a major suburban community, Commack has significant police presence from the Suffolk County Police Department’s 6th Precinct.
Local enforcement patterns include sobriety checkpoints on Jericho Turnpike, Northern State Parkway enforcement, and DWI checkpoints during holidays.
Where Commack DWI Cases Are Heard
DWI arrests in Commack are prosecuted in the First District Court in Central Islip:
First District Court
400 Carleton Avenue
Central Islip, NY 11722
Phone: (631) 462-3900
Types of DWI Cases We Handle in Commack
Common Law DWI (VTL 1192.3)
This charge applies when an officer determines you are intoxicated based on observable signs.
Per Se DWI (VTL 1192.2)
This charge applies when your BAC measures 0.08% or higher.
Aggravated DWI (VTL 1192.2-a)
This applies when your BAC measures 0.18% or higher. Carries enhanced penalties.
DWAI (VTL 1192.1)
This violation-level offense applies when your BAC is between 0.05% and 0.07%.
Leandra’s Law Violations
DWI with a child under 16 results in automatic felony charges.
Chemical Test Refusal
Refusing a breath test triggers automatic license revocation.
The Critical DMV Refusal Hearing
If you refused the breathalyzer, the DMV refusal allegation can cost you your license for one year minimum.
DWI Defense Strategies for Commack Cases
Illegal Stop or Checkpoint Violations
Police must have reasonable suspicion to stop your vehicle.
Field Sobriety Test Challenges
Standardized tests must be administered according to specific protocols.
Breathalyzer Accuracy Challenges
Breath test machines require regular calibration.
Rising Blood Alcohol Defense
Your BAC may have been lower while driving than when tested.
Penalties for DWI in Commack
First Offense DWI:
- Misdemeanor criminal record
- Fines $500-$1,000
- License revocation 6 months minimum
- Possible jail up to 1 year
- Ignition interlock required
Second Offense:
- E Class Felony
- Fines up to $5,000
- License revocation 1 year minimum
- Mandatory jail 5 days minimum
Why Choose a Local Commack DWI Attorney
- Familiarity with local courts
- Knowledge of local enforcement
- Relationships with prosecutors
- Accessibility
Call (631) 265-1052 now for a free consultation
Frequently Asked Questions About Commack DWI Cases
Where do I go to court for a DWI arrest in Commack?
Commack DWI cases are heard at the First District Court in Central Islip.
What is the difference between DWI and DWAI?
DWI is a criminal offense with BAC .08% or higher. DWAI is a violation with BAC .05%-.07%.
Will I lose my license if I am arrested for DWI in Commack?
License suspended at arraignment. 6-month revocation if convicted. Refusal can trigger 1-year revocation.
Can I get a conditional license after a Commack DWI arrest?
Yes, first-time offenders are typically eligible for a conditional license.
What happens if I refused the breathalyzer in Commack?
Refusal triggers separate DMV hearing and potential 1-year license revocation.
How much does a DWI lawyer cost in Suffolk County?
Fees vary. I offer free consultations.
Can DWI charges be dismissed in Commack?
Yes, for reasons including illegal stops or faulty breath tests.
What is Leandra’s Law?
DWI with child under 16 is an automatic felony.
How long does a DWI case take?
Most DWI cases take 3-6 months.
What should I do immediately after a DWI arrest in Commack?
Document everything, remain silent, and contact an attorney immediately.
Honors & Recognition