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Ed Palermo

Over 31 years · Long Island criminal defense

Facing a Charge?
Talk to Ed.
Ed Palermo

Over 31 years · Long Island criminal defense

Facing a DWI arrest in Commack? You Need Certainty, Not Guilt.

I've personally defended over 2,000 people across Nassau & Suffolk for 31 years. Tell me what happened and I'll text you back.

My cell, 24/7 (631) 903-3733
5 stars 150+ Five-Star Reviews "Superb" Avvo Rating for over a decade
7x Best Lawyer of Long Island
2,000+ Clients personally represented
31 Years criminal trial experience
NY Law Journal Trailblazer Award
24/7 Direct access to your attorney

Why clients choose Ed

One attorney. Your case, start to finish.

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.

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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

Commack DWI Lawyer

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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.

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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.

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Case Results

Attorney advertising. Please understand that prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

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.

Client Reviews

Testimonials

“Ed is a great lawyer!”
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Ed is a great lawyer! Very intelligent and with his 30+ years experience really gives him upper hand on trials and other criminal cases. Highly recommend him.

Faiyaz Habib September 2025 Google
“...Thanks to his services, I am living a much better life...”
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Edward was nothing but a true professional when helping me with my situation. Thanks to his services, I am living a much better life. Thank you.

Chris M May 2025 Google
“...I can finally move on with my life and serve my country”
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I recently joined the military but made a mistake before I enlisted that could have seriously affected my life which I was charged for. Mr Palermo got my case dismissed. I’m so glad I can finally move on with my life and serve my country

Tim May 2025 Google
“...when I tell you he got my case dismissed i mean DISMISSED...”
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I had a DWI case in Nassau and when I tell you he got my case dismissed i mean DISMISSED and DWI wasn’t the only charge

Roach Built June 2024 Google
“If you’re facing a DWI...do yourself a favor and call Ed”
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Ed Palermo is an incredible attorney! Even after my DWI case was resolved very favorably, I still had the interlock device in my car. Ed took care of that as well writing a motion for early termination after 6 months maintaining the device. If you’re facing a DWI case please do yourself a favor and call Ed Palermo. Best decision I could have made!

John Whaley February 2024 Google

Online Ratings

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