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.
Long Island Sex Crimes Lawyer
Experienced Long Island Sex Crimes Defense Attorney
Being accused of a sex crime is one of the most serious and stigmatizing charges you can face in New York. If you are under investigation or have been arrested for a sex offense in Suffolk County or Nassau County, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands these complex cases.
As a criminal defense lawyer with over 31 years of experience, I have successfully defended clients facing serious sex crime allegations throughout Long Island. The consequences extend far beyond jail time – they can affect your employment, housing, relationships, and require lifetime registration as a sex offender.
(631) 903-3733
Related Services
- Long Island Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Domestic Violence Defense
- SORA Risk Level Calculator – Estimate Your Registration Risk
- About Ed Palermo – Credentials
I treasure my clients, and I will do everything in my power to get you a great result.
Case Results
First Degree Robbery - ACQUITTED 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 & Weapons Charges - REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR, NO JAIL
Client charged with Criminal Possession of Marijuana First Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon Second Degree. 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.
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.
DWI - NOT GUILTY AFTER TRIAL
Client arrested for DWI on Main Street. Officer claimed client failed field sobriety tests. We challenged the stop as lacking reasonable suspicion and the tests as improperly administered. Jury returned not guilty verdict.
Drug Possession - DISMISSED
Client was a passenger in a vehicle stopped on Jericho Turnpike. Police found cocaine in the center console and charged all occupants. We demonstrated our client had no knowledge of the drugs. Prosecution dismissed all charges.
Weapons Possession - CASE DISMISSED
Client charged with possessing unregistered firearm found during traffic stop. Successfully challenged search as unconstitutional. All evidence suppressed, case dismissed.
Multiple Felonies - REDUCED TO SINGLE MISDEMEANOR
Client facing multiple felony charges including burglary and larceny. Through intensive investigation and negotiation, secured plea to single misdemeanor with probation, avoiding state prison.
Meet Ed Palermo
I am Edward Palermo, a Suffolk County criminal defense attorney with over three decades of experience defending individuals accused of serious crimes, including sex offenses. Since graduating from Hofstra Law School in 1994, I have dedicated my career to protecting the rights of the accused.
Sex crimes cases are uniquely challenging. They often involve complex forensic evidence and intense public scrutiny. I work with forensic experts, investigators, and mental health professionals when necessary to build the strongest possible defense.
What sets my practice apart is my commitment to accessibility. Unlike large firms where you may never speak to your attorney, I provide every client with my personal cell phone number: (631) 903-3733.
I have been named Best Lawyer on Long Island for five consecutive years, recognized as a NY Law Journal Trailblazer, and maintain a 10.0 AVVO Rating.
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
Understanding Sex Crimes Charges
The Seriousness of Sex Crimes Allegations
Sex crimes are among the most aggressively prosecuted offenses in New York State. Even an accusation can have devastating consequences for your reputation, employment, and personal relationships.
Types of Sex Crimes We Defend
Rape and Sexual Assault
Rape charges involve allegations of non-consensual sexual intercourse. First-degree rape carries up to 25 years in prison. These cases often hinge on issues of consent, credibility, and forensic evidence.
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse charges involve sexual contact without penetration. These cases frequently involve family members, acquaintances, or situations where alcohol or drugs were involved.
Child Pornography
Possession, distribution, or production of child pornography are serious federal and state offenses requiring immediate legal attention.
Prostitution and Solicitation
While often treated as less serious, prostitution-related charges can still result in jail time, fines, and damage to your reputation.
New York SORA (Sex Offender Registration Act) – Complete Guide
Understanding SORA Requirements
The Sex Offender Registration Act (SORA) is one of the most severe consequences of a sex crime conviction in New York. If convicted, you will be required to register as a sex offender, with potential lifetime registration depending on your risk level.
SORA Registration Levels
Level 1 (Low Risk): Registration for 20 years. Information shared with law enforcement only.
Level 2 (Moderate Risk): Registration for life. Information shared with law enforcement and available to public through online directory.
Level 3 (High Risk): Registration for life. Active community notification including postcards to neighbors, schools, and organizations.
SORA Registration Calendar & Deadlines
Initial Registration Timeline
- Within 10 days of sentencing or release: Must register with local law enforcement
- Within 5 days of moving: Must update address with new jurisdiction
- Within 10 days of any address change: Update current jurisdiction
Annual Verification Requirements
- Every year within 5 days of your birthday: In-person verification at designated law enforcement agency
- Every 3 months (Level 3 only): Additional verification required
Employment/School Registration
- Within 24 hours: Report any change in employment or enrollment
- Before starting: Must register new workplace or school location
SORA Application & Registration Process
Step 1: Initial Risk Assessment
After conviction, the court orders a risk assessment conducted by the Board of Examiners of Sex Offenders. This evaluation determines your risk level (1, 2, or 3) based on:
- Details of the offense
- Criminal history
- Substance abuse history
- Employment and education history
- Psychological evaluation
- Victim impact statement
Step 2: Risk Level Hearing
You have the right to challenge your assigned risk level at a SORA hearing. This is critical because:
- We can present mitigating evidence
- Challenge the risk assessment methodology
- Present character witnesses
- Argue for downward departure from guidelines
- Potentially reduce from Level 3 to 2, or Level 2 to 1
Step 3: Registration with Law Enforcement
Once your risk level is determined, you must register in person at:
- Suffolk County: Suffolk County Police Department or local precinct
- Nassau County: Nassau County Police Department
- New York City: Local NYPD precinct
Step 4: Ongoing Compliance
Failure to comply with any SORA requirement is a felony punishable by up to 7 years in prison. Requirements include:
- Annual in-person verification
- Address updates within 5-10 days
- Employment/school updates within 24 hours
- Email/internet identifier registration
- Photograph updates
Defending Against SORA Registration
Challenge the Underlying Conviction
The best defense against SORA is avoiding conviction in the first place. We fight aggressively to:
- Get charges dismissed pre-trial
- Negotiate plea to non-SORA eligible offenses
- Win acquittal at trial
Minimize Risk Level at SORA Hearing
If convicted, we fight to minimize your risk level by:
- Presenting comprehensive mitigation package
- Challenging prosecution’s risk factors
- Demonstrating low risk of re-offense
- Highlighting positive life changes
Seek Modification or Removal
For Level 1 offenders, you may petition for relief from registration after 20 years. For Level 2 and 3, we can petition for downward modification based on:
- Years of compliance
- Clean record since conviction
- Completion of treatment programs
- Changed circumstances
Why You Need an Experienced SORA Attorney
SORA has lifetime consequences. An experienced attorney can mean the difference between:
- Level 3 (public notification, lifetime registration) vs Level 1 (law enforcement only, 20 years)
- Successful employment vs unemployment due to registry
- Housing stability vs homelessness due to residency restrictions
Call (631) 903-3733 Now – SORA Defense Consultation
Frequently Asked Questions About Sex Crimes Defense
What should I do if I’m accused of a sex crime in Suffolk County?
Do not speak to police or investigators without an attorney present. Do not contact the complainant. Contact an experienced sex crimes defense lawyer immediately. Early intervention can prevent charges from being filed.
Will my name be made public if I’m charged with rape or sexual assault?
Arrests and criminal charges are public record. However, early intervention by an attorney may prevent charges from being filed in the first place, keeping your name out of the public record.
What is the Sex Offender Registry in New York?
SORA (Sex Offender Registration Act) requires convicted sex offenders to register with law enforcement. Registration levels (1, 2, or 3) determine duration and public notification requirements. An experienced attorney can help minimize or avoid registration.
Can sex crimes charges be dismissed in Nassau County?
Yes, for various reasons including false accusations, insufficient evidence, illegal searches, or successful completion of diversion programs for lesser offenses.
Why choose Ed Palermo for sex crimes defense on Long Island?
31+ years of criminal defense experience in Suffolk and Nassau Counties, deep understanding of sex crimes law, access to expert witnesses, and commitment to protecting your rights and reputation.
Honors & Recognition
