Assault Charge After Violent Altercation
I represented a client arrested for assault after a violent altercation. I secured his release on low bail, and the matter was ultimately dismissed. The case was reported on News 12, WABC, and WCBS.
Suffolk County Criminal Defense Lawyer
Why Thousands of Long Islanders Choose the Top Criminal Defense Lawyers in Suffolk County
A criminal arrest in Suffolk County instantly triggers an aggressive legal process. From aggressive bail arguments at arraignment to complex discovery demands under New York law, the state is designed to force a quick conviction. I am Ed Palermo, and for over 31 years, I have focused my practice entirely on defense, stepping in to protect the rights, freedom, and futures of individuals across Long Island.
As a 7-time Best of Long Island Winner, I personally handle every facet of your criminal defense file. You do not get passed off to a junior associate or a standard appearance attorney—you get my decades of specific courtroom knowledge and my direct personal cell phone line whenever you need reassurance or absolute clarity.
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 Suffolk & LI Lawyer
Voted the Best of Long Island for 7 years (including 2026). My reputation in the Riverhead and Central Islip courts is built on 31+ years of trial wins and integrity.
Elite Trial Experience
I have defended over 2,000 clients. In Suffolk County, I don't just "handle" cases—I prepare every single one for trial. This aggressive posture often forces the DA to offer better results before a jury is even picked.
Direct Access: No Hand-Offs
I personally handle every Suffolk County appearance. You get my direct cell phone number and 24/7 access. When your freedom is at stake in the Cromarty or Cohalan complexes, you deal with me, not an associate.
Text Ed Directly (24/7)
An arrest in Suffolk can happen at any hour. I am available right now to discuss your charges and start building your defense. Text or call me at (631) 903-3733 for an immediate, honest assessment.
Recognized by the community
7-Time Best Lawyer on Long Island
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2026
Voted Best of Long Island by readers of BestOfLongIsland.com — alongside a New York Law Journal Trailblazer Award and a “Superb” Avvo rating held for over a decade.
Featured Trial Result
Second Degree Burglary Trial, Life Imprisonment Exposure NOT GUILTY
I represented a client facing a Second Degree Burglary indictment. Because of his prior criminal record, the District Attorney's office formally designated him as a persistent violent felony offender under New York Penal Law § 70.08, exposing him to a mandatory enhanced sentence carrying a maximum of life imprisonment. The prosecution took an absolute zero-plea-bargain stance, offering no alternative short of maximum state prison time.
Refusing to compromise, I took the case to a full jury trial at the Cromarty Court Complex in Riverhead. Through aggressive cross-examination of the state’s witnesses and a meticulous deconstruction of the forensic timeline, I undermined the prosecutor’s theory of the case. The Suffolk County jury returned a unanimous NOT GUILTY verdict on all counts. My client, who had been held in the Suffolk County Jail for more than eight months awaiting trial, was immediately released from custody as a free man.
When your life is on the line and prosecutors refuse to bend, you need a relentless trial lawyer. Text my cell directly 24/7 to put 31+ years of criminal defense experience in your corner.
Notable Verdicts & Results across Suffolk County
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Legal disclaimer
First Degree Robbery at Gunpoint
I represented a client accused of a gunpoint First Degree Robbery, facing up to 25 years in state prison. I tried the case and convinced a Suffolk County jury to acquit on all charges.
Second Degree Burglary Trial, Life Imprisonment Exposure
I represented a client facing a Second Degree Burglary indictment. Because of his prior criminal record, the District Attorney's office formally designated him as a persistent violent felony offender under New York Penal Law § 70.08, exposing him to a mandatory enhanced sentence carrying a maximum of life imprisonment. The prosecution took an absolute zero-plea-bargain stance, offering no alternative short of maximum state prison time.
First Degree Rape, Two Defendants
I represented two clients charged with First Degree Rape, each facing up to 25 years in state prison. The matter went to trial in the New York State Supreme Court in Suffolk County. Both clients were acquitted of all charges.
First Degree Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance
I represented a client charged with Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the First Degree, facing decades in prison. I found flaws in the evidence and convinced the District Attorney to reduce the charge to a misdemeanor with no jail and no probation. My client's freedom, reputation, and future were protected.
Stony Brook University Student Charged with Grand Larceny
I represented a Stony Brook University student charged with Grand Larceny. I convinced the District Attorney to grant a dismissal after six months without a re-arrest. My client's reputation, freedom, and student visa were all protected.
Meet Ed Palermo
Your Suffolk Criminal Defense Attorney
I’ve dedicated over 31 years to criminal defense in Suffolk County, representing more than 2,000 Long Island residents facing charges ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies. My practice focuses exclusively on high-stakes criminal defense and DWI cases in Suffolk County courts, Nassau County courts, and throughout Long Island.
I appear regularly in Suffolk County Court (Cromarty Complex) in Riverhead defending serious felony indictments, the First District Court at the Cohalan Court Complex in Central Islip handling misdemeanor offenses, and dozens of local village and town justice courts from Amityville and Northport to Southampton and Southold. I know the prosecutors, the judges, and the distinct court culture in each jurisdiction, knowledge that comes only from decades of consistent, daily courtroom presence.
My trial experience matters. I’ve secured “not guilty” verdicts in complex cases. I’ve negotiated favorable, non-custodial outcomes in cases where clients faced state prison time. I’ve successfully gotten serious felony charges reduced and even, at times, dismissed when prosecutors were certain they held air-tight cases.
But what I’m 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 Suffolk County District Attorney’s case.
Client Reviews
Client Reviews from our Suffolk Office
“Ed Palermo is an excellent and very professional attorney. He…”
Ed Palermo is an excellent and very professional attorney. He works to achieve the best possible outcome for the client. He is always very personable and easy to talk to.
“Attorney Rafael Zapata is outstanding. With over 25 years of…”
Attorney Rafael Zapata is outstanding. With over 25 years of criminal defense experience and the ability to serve clients in both English and Spanish, he makes the process smooth and clear for everyone. His professionalism and dedication truly set him apart. Highly recommend this firm for anyone needing trusted legal representation.
“I highly recommend Ed Palermo as a top-notch criminal defense…”
I highly recommend Ed Palermo as a top-notch criminal defense lawyer. He represented a family member of mine with incredible skill, dedication, and professionalism. From the very beginning, Ed Palermo took the time to explain every step of the legal process, answered all our questions, and provided unwavering support. He fought tirelessly to ensure the best possible outcome, and thanks to his hard work and expertise, our family member’s case was resolved successfully. Ed Palermo is not only highly knowledgeable but also genuinely cares about his clients, treating them with respect and compassion. If you need a strong, reliable, and experienced defense attorney, I wholeheartedly recommend Ed Palermo.
“great lawyer, he has helped me out with a couple…”
great lawyer, he has helped me out with a couple cases now and every time it’s a win. great price for the amazing work that he does. i will always call him if needed.
“Edward Palermo is confident, smart, and extremely knowledgeable. He knows…”
Edward Palermo is confident, smart, and extremely knowledgeable. He knows everything about the law. He knows how to effectively argue a case and is always available when you have a question. He is very passionate and genuinely cares about his clients and their future.
“Edward Palermo is an extremely gifted attorney. I know well…”
Edward Palermo is an extremely gifted attorney. I know well as he represented me and my family recently. Previously I worked for a number of lawyers over the years so can well differentiate between the not so good and the great. Ed is great. He's well versed in the law, and has extreme expertise in dealing with the Police, District Attorneys and most importantly Judges as well. He leaves his clients feeling confident and in good hands. Ed goes the extra mile for you and always gets back to you to answer any questions you have. He's a fantastic attorney!
Online Ratings
Suffolk County Criminal Courts
An Arrest in Suffolk County is Not the End of Your World
If you or a loved one has just been arrested in Suffolk County, I know exactly what you are experiencing right now. It is a sudden, crushing wave of panic, confusion, and deep shame. You are likely staring at the ceiling, wondering how a single incident could destroy your career, your family reputation, and your freedom. I want you to take a deep breath and understand one thing clearly: this is not the end of the world, and a favorable outcome is on the horizon.
For more than 31 years, the very first phone call clients make to my office brings them an immediate sense of profound relief. I do not judge you, I do not lecture you, and I do not pass blame. My job is to absorb your panic, ground you in reality, and immediately put an elite defense plan into motion. In my experience, once a client gets through to me on the phone, they realize they finally have a shield between them and the state. That panic transforms into peace of mind because they know a lifelong defender is taking over the fight.
If You Are Panicking, Put My 31+ Years of Courtroom Influence to Work Right Now
Do not sit alone with your anxiety. Text my personal cell phone directly. The moment I answer, you will feel the relief of knowing exactly how we are going to protect your future, your license, and your freedom.
31+ Years of Daily Presence in Suffolk County Courthouses
When you hire a criminal defense lawyer, you cannot afford a generalist who spends their week handling divorces, personal injury settlements, or real estate contracts. I am 100% dedicated to criminal law. While my partners manage other sectors of our firm, my entire career for the last three decades has been lived inside the criminal courts of Suffolk County. I don’t just know the law—I know the human beings who enforce it.
- First District Court (Central Islip): I have spent the last 31+ years in this building every single week, handling an average of 15 to 20 criminal cases per week on the calendar. I possess an intimate, granular knowledge of how this complex operates—from the clerks and court officers to the judges and individual file structures.
- The Supervising District Attorneys: Because I have been in these trenches since 1994, the vast majority of the Supervising DAs in Suffolk County started their careers practicing alongside me. This decades-deep professional respect gives me direct, elite access when negotiating complex matters.
- Cromarty Court Complex (Riverhead): Since 1994, I have personally represented well over 1,000 clients in the Riverhead courthouse. I am entirely at home in this building, having tried multiple serious felony indictments to stunning Not Guilty verdicts in front of local prosecutors and judges.
Negotiating Out of Jail Sentences and Securing Dismissals
If you are facing serious felony charges, the threat of upstate prison exposure can feel completely paralyzing. This is exactly where specialized, lifelong experience matters most. For 31 years, I have been utilizing my reputation and deep courtroom familiarity to convince judges to lower sentences, compel district attorneys to reduce charges, and force complete dismissals. Even when dealing with high-exposure felonies, my daily mission is to build an aggressive mitigation and trial strategy that successfully negotiates my clients completely out of jail sentences.
Unparalleled Command of Suffolk Local Justiciary Courts
Serious criminal defense isn’t limited to the central hubs. Local town and village justice courts possess their own unique procedural cultures and prosecutor dynamics. I am an established, highly respected defense practitioner across every local jurisdiction in Suffolk County, frequently appearing in:
| Riverhead Justice Court | An extraordinarily busy, high-volume local court operating year-round where my reputation provides an immediate strategic advantage. |
| East End Town Courts | Defending clients facing complex local parts in Southold, Southampton, and East Hampton Town Courts. |
| West End & North Shore Parts | Navigating municipal village and town parts including Northport, Amityville, and Sag Harbor. |
Direct Cell Access When You Need a Defense Champion
I refuse to run a corporate law factory. When you contact my firm, you are not passed off to an intake coordinator, a legal secretary, or a junior associate who has never selected a jury or cross-examined a detective. You deal directly with me. I personally craft your defense strategy, I negotiate with the prosecutors I have known for decades, and I stand beside you in front of the judge. Every single client I accept receives my personal cell phone number for direct, 24/7 access.
Let’s clear the panic and shame out of the room. Let’s get to work on protecting your career, your family, and your freedom. Text my cell phone right now, tell me what happened, and let me bring you the relief of a premier defense strategy.
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 practice, Mr. Palermo has built 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 happens at my first court appearance in Suffolk County?
Your first appearance is called an arraignment. The judge will read the charges against you, ask for your plea, address bail or release conditions, and may issue an Order of Protection if the case involves an alleged victim. You have the right to have an attorney present at the arraignment.
How long does a criminal case take in Suffolk County?
It depends on the complexity of the case and whether it goes to trial. Simple misdemeanors may be resolved in 2-4 months. Felony cases, especially those going to trial, can take 6 months to over a year. Cases in local justice courts often move faster than those in County Court.
Can criminal charges be dropped in Suffolk County?
Yes. Charges can be dropped or dismissed for many reasons: insufficient evidence, constitutional violations (illegal search, Miranda violations), witness credibility issues, successful completion of diversion programs, or negotiated agreements with prosecutors.
What is an ACD and how can it help me?
An Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is a disposition where your case is adjourned for 6 months to 1 year. If you stay out of trouble and comply with any conditions set by the court, the charges are dismissed and your record is sealed. ACDs are often available for first-time offenders charged with less serious crimes.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor charge?
Yes. While misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, a conviction still creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, professional licensing, and immigration status. An experienced attorney can often negotiate reduced charges or alternative dispositions that avoid these consequences.
Can I get my criminal record sealed in New York?
Under CPL § 160.59, certain criminal convictions may be eligible for sealing. Generally, you may be eligible if you have no more than two criminal convictions (only one of which can be a felony), and at least 10 years have passed since your last conviction or release from incarceration.
How does bail work in Suffolk County after bail reform?
New York's bail reform laws eliminated cash bail for most misdemeanors and non-violent felonies. For these charges, judges must release defendants on their own recognizance or with non-monetary conditions. However, judges can still set bail for violent felonies, certain domestic violence offenses, and other qualifying charges.
What's the difference between County Court and District Court?
Suffolk County Court in Riverhead handles indicted felonies—serious cases that have gone before a grand jury. The First District Court at the Cohalan Court Complex in Central Islip handles un-indicted felonies and misdemeanors. Local village and town justice courts handle violations, traffic offenses, and some misdemeanors.
What should I do if I'm arrested in Suffolk County?
1) Exercise your right to remain silent—say "I want to speak to my lawyer." 2) Do not resist arrest. 3) Do not consent to searches. 4) Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. 5) Write down everything you remember about the incident.
Should I Plead Guilty or Go To Trial?
When deciding whether to plead guilty or go to trial in New York, consider the strength of the prosecution’s evidence, potential plea benefits like reduced charges or sentencing, and the long-term impacts of a conviction on your life, such as professional or immigration consequences. Ed Palermo can guide you through this choice, leveraging 30 years of experience to assess evidence, negotiate favorable pleas, or fight for an acquittal, ensuring a strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
Learn more about when to plead guilty and when to go to trial.
Honors & Recognition
