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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 Criminal Charge in Patchogue? 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

Patchogue Criminal Defense Lawyer

31+ Years Defending Long Island Residents Across Suffolk County

If you were arrested in Patchogue, you are in one of the busiest, most closely watched downtowns in Suffolk County. Patchogue has become one of Long Island’s genuine revitalization success stories, people now drive in from across the Island to spend an evening on Main Street, and that popularity brings a steady police presence along with it. I am Ed Palermo, and for 31 years I have defended criminal cases throughout Suffolk County, with an office right here in Patchogue at 76 Medford Ave, Patchogue, NY 11772. For the countywide picture, see my Suffolk County criminal defense page.

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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

Why clients choose Ed

One attorney. Your case, start to finish.

7-Time Best Lawyer & Highly Rated

Featured as a New York Law Journal Trailblazer and maintained a "Superb" AVVO Rating for over a decade. Voted 7-Time Winner of the Best of Long Island.

Unrivaled Criminal Trial Advocacy

I personally defend your freedom with over 31 years of exclusive criminal trial experience. I do everything in my power to dismantle the prosecution's evidence and secure a "Not Guilty" verdict.

Direct Access To Your Attorney

Every client receives my personal cell phone number. You will never be handed off to a junior associate; you deal directly with me from your initial arrest to the final resolution of your case.

Text Ed Palermo Personally Today

We understand this is an overwhelming time. I am available 24/7 to provide the certainty you need. Text or call me directly right now at (631) 903-3733

Patchogue’s downtown is centered around the historic Four Corners, where East and West Main Street meet North and South Ocean Avenue, and it is lined with restaurants, bars, boutique shops, and the restored Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts. That same energy that makes Patchogue a destination is also what draws a steady stream of criminal cases, disputes between crowds out for the evening, theft from busy retail corridors, and the everyday conflicts that come with a packed downtown. Whatever brought you here, the questions at the outset are the same: was the stop or arrest lawful, what can the prosecution actually prove, and what are the collateral consequences for a job, a license, or immigration status.

Which court is mine? A criminal charge arising anywhere in Patchogue is prosecuted at the Suffolk County First District Court at the Cohalan Court Complex in Central Islip. If the charge is an indicted felony, it moves to the Suffolk County Court in Riverhead. I appear in both regularly.

CLICK HERE TO TEXT MY PERSONAL CELL: (631) 903-3733

A Downtown Built on a Real Comeback

Patchogue was not always a destination. As recently as the 1990s, much of downtown Main Street sat boarded up and struggling. Over the past two decades it has become one of Long Island’s most recognized downtown revivals, drawing national attention, and the summer Alive After Five street festival alone now brings tens of thousands of visitors to Main Street each year. That growth is a genuine point of pride for the village, and it is also exactly why I see so many criminal cases originate here, a crowded downtown on a Friday or Saturday night produces disputes, thefts, and arrests at a volume a quieter town simply does not.

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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Featured Trial Result

First Degree Assault Trial NOT GUILTY

I represented a young man charged with First Degree Assault and a number of additional felonies and misdemeanors carrying a maximum sentence of 25 years in state prison and a minimum of 5 years upon conviction. The Suffolk County District Attorney's office took a hardline stance and offered a plea deal of 15 years in state prison. Refusing to accept a career-destroying outcome for my client, I rejected the offer and scheduled the matter for trial in the New York State Supreme Court.

The trial lasted four weeks. Approximately 15 witnesses testified, including three forensic experts presenting complex scientific testimony. I systematically dismantled the prosecution’s evidence through cross-examination and presented a comprehensive defense that exposed serious weaknesses in the government’s case. The jury needed only four hours to acquit my client of First Degree Assault and all other charges. The case was reported in Newsday.

When prosecutors refuse to negotiate and your future is on the line, you need an experienced trial attorney who has actually tried serious felony cases to verdict. Text my cell directly 24/7 to put 31+ years of criminal defense experience in your corner.

Notable Criminal Defense Results, across Suffolk County

NOT GUILTY

First Degree Assault Trial

I represented a young man charged with First Degree Assault and a number of additional felonies and misdemeanors carrying a maximum sentence of 25 years in state prison and a minimum of 5 years upon conviction. The Suffolk County District Attorney's office took a hardline stance and offered a plea deal of 15 years in state prison. Refusing to accept a career-destroying outcome for my client, I rejected the offer and scheduled the matter for trial in the New York State Supreme Court.

NOT GUILTY

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.

NOT GUILTY

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.

NOT GUILTY

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.

NOT GUILTY

Second Degree Assault After East Hampton Bar Fight

I represented a client charged with felony assault after a bar fight in East Hampton. Through thorough cross-examination of the witnesses and by challenging the inconsistencies in the police reports, I won a NOT GUILTY verdict from the jury.

REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR

Second Degree Robbery Reduced to Petit Larceny

I represented a client facing a serious felony robbery charge. Through negotiation with the Suffolk County District Attorney, I had the charge reduced to misdemeanor petit larceny. My client avoided prison time and a felony conviction.

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Meet Ed Palermo

Your Long Island Criminal Defense Attorney

I have dedicated over 31 years to criminal defense, representing more than 2,000 Long Island residents facing charges ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies. My practice focuses exclusively on high-stakes criminal trial defense and DWI defense across Nassau County, Suffolk County, and the East End.

I appear regularly in the Nassau County Court in Mineola defending serious felony indictments, the First District Court in Hempstead handling misdemeanor offenses, the Cohalan Court Complex in Central Islip handling Suffolk County misdemeanors and lower felonies, the Suffolk County Court in Riverhead for serious felony and DWI matters, and local village and town justice courts across the East End from Westhampton through Montauk. I know the prosecutors, the judges, and the distinct court culture in each jurisdiction. That knowledge comes only from decades of consistent daily courtroom presence.

My trial experience matters. I have secured not guilty verdicts in complex felony cases including First Degree Assault, First Degree Robbery, Second Degree Burglary charged as a persistent violent felony offender, First Degree Rape, felony sexual assault, and DWI accidents. I have negotiated favorable, non-custodial outcomes in cases where clients faced state prison time. I have successfully gotten serious felony charges reduced and dismissed when prosecutors were certain they held airtight cases.

But what I am 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 District Attorney’s case.

Client Reviews

Client Reviews from our Suffolk Office

“Ed Palermo is an excellent and very professional attorney. He…”
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

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.

Roxanne Thomas June 2026 Google
“Attorney Rafael Zapata is outstanding. With over 25 years of…”
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

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.

Ali hassan September 2025 Google
“I highly recommend Ed Palermo as a top-notch criminal defense…”
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

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.

Tameika Bartley February 2025 Google
“great lawyer, he has helped me out with a couple…”
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

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.

dereck valarezo February 2025 Google
“Edward Palermo is confident, smart, and extremely knowledgeable. He knows…”
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

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.

E D February 2025 Google
“Edward Palermo is an extremely gifted attorney. I know well…”
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

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!

Susanne Day February 2025 Google

Online Ratings

The Essential Patchogue Criminal Defense Advocate

Where Your Case Is Heard

Patchogue sits within the Town of Brookhaven, and a criminal charge arising here is prosecuted at the Suffolk County First District Court at the Cohalan Court Complex in Central Islip, the same central courthouse that serves Babylon, Huntington, Islip, and Smithtown. If the case is indicted as a felony, it moves to the Suffolk County Court in Riverhead. I appear in both regularly.

The Charges I Handle for Patchogue Clients

I defend the full range of criminal matters that arise in and around Patchogue:

Whatever the charge, and whichever of Patchogue’s courts it lands in, getting the key questions answered early, before positions harden, is where these cases are shaped.

How I Defend a Patchogue Criminal Case

From the first conversation I look for the pressure points. I examine whether the stop, the arrest, and any search were lawful, because a suppressed stop or search frequently ends a case outright. Under New York’s discovery statute, Criminal Procedure Law § 245.20, the prosecution faces firm deadlines, and incomplete discovery can support a dismissal under the speedy trial rules of CPL § 30.30.

Where the case is strong, I negotiate from decades of experience with how the First District Court in Central Islip actually handles dispositions, reductions, adjournments in contemplation of dismissal, and treatment-based resolutions. And I prepare every matter as if it will be tried, because that preparation is what moves a negotiation in the right direction. You can review my case results to see what that approach has produced across Suffolk County. I handle every case personally, from the first call to the final disposition.

CLICK HERE TO TEXT MY PERSONAL CELL: (631) 903-3733

frequently asked questions

A criminal charge in Patchogue is prosecuted in Suffolk County courts, where judges and prosecutors handle high caseloads and move quickly. Having a defense attorney who knows the local court procedures, the assigned judges, and the tendencies of the district attorney's office gives you a real advantage from arraignment through resolution.

We defend clients facing a wide range of charges including DWI, drug offenses, assault, theft, weapons charges, domestic violence, sex crimes, and violations of orders of protection. Whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony, we approach every case with the same level of preparation and attention.

At arraignment, the judge informs you of the charges, sets bail or release conditions, and schedules future court dates. This is often the first opportunity for your attorney to argue for reduced bail or release on your own recognizance. Having counsel at this stage can make a significant difference in whether you go home or stay in custody.

Yes. Depending on the facts, the evidence, and your background, it may be possible to negotiate a reduction to a lesser charge or pursue a dismissal. Successful outcomes often depend on early investigation, identifying weaknesses in the prosecution's case, and presenting mitigating factors to the district attorney.

An Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal, or ACD, is a disposition where the court adjourns the case for a set period, typically six months or one year. If you stay out of trouble during that time, the charge is dismissed and sealed. An ACD is not available for every offense, but when it applies, it can result in no criminal record.

Yes. DWI is one of the most common charges we defend in the Patchogue area. A DWI arrest triggers both criminal proceedings and a separate DMV license action, and both need to be handled strategically. Learn more about our Patchogue DWI defense practice.

Stay calm, do not resist, and do not answer questions about the incident beyond providing your identification. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Exercise both. Anything you say during or after an arrest can be used against you, and early statements are often the most damaging part of the prosecution's case.

It can. A criminal conviction may trigger consequences beyond the sentence itself, including loss of employment, denial of professional licensing, immigration consequences, and difficulty passing background checks. These collateral consequences should be part of the defense strategy from the beginning, not an afterthought.

Timelines vary depending on the severity of the charge, the complexity of the evidence, and whether the case goes to trial. A simple misdemeanor may resolve in a few months, while a felony case can take a year or longer. Your attorney should keep you informed at every stage and push the case forward without sacrificing preparation.

Fees depend on the nature and severity of the charge, the expected complexity of the case, and whether trial preparation is needed. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your situation and provide a clear explanation of costs before you make any commitment. With 31 of criminal defense experience, our firm is committed to providing aggressive representation at every level.

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Honors & Recognition