Award Winning &
Highly Rated
I have been voted 7 Time Winner FLCU Best of Long Island, I was featured as a Trailblazer by the prestigious New York Law Journal in 2019 and have a perfect 10 “superb” rating from AVVO.
There is no Lawyer fighting harder than me!
I treasure my clients and truly appreciate that they retain me to defend them in matters of such importance. I will do everything in my power to get you a great result.
I am always directly available to my clients
All of my clients receive my personal cell phone number. Clients can contact me anytime. New clients can feel free to text me anytime as well on my cell (631) 903-3733
Speak Directly To Ed Today
We understand this can be one of the most embarrassing, stressful times in their lives. We are here to help.
I will answer all of your questions. I will explain the DWI charges you face. I will explain potential strategies to win your case. New clients ALWAYS feel better after they speak to me.
- Ed Palermo
Long Island DWI Lawyer
Page Author & Legal Reviewer: Edward Palermo, Esq. |
Originally Published: April 2024 |
Last Verified: May 2026
Edward Palermo is a premier Long Island DWI / DUI attorney with 31+ years of daily courtroom practice. Devoting his practice to DWI trial defense, he has been recognized as a 7-time Best Lawyer on Long Island (2019–2024 & 2026).
Why Long Islanders choose Award Winning DWI / DUI Lawyers on Long Island
Long Island DWI Lawyer – Ed Palermo | 31+ Years | Nassau, Suffolk, Hamptons | (631) 903-3733
When you’re facing DWI charges anywhere on Long Island, your freedom, your license, and your future are on the line. I’m Ed Palermo, and I’ve spent over 31 years defending people just like you in every Long Island courthouse, from Hempstead to Riverhead to East Hampton. Whether you were arrested in Nassau County, Suffolk County, or the Hamptons, I know the courts, the prosecutors, and the judges who will decide your case.
This isn’t knowledge you pick up in a few years. It comes from three decades of hands-on experience defending hundreds of DWI cases across Long Island, building relationships with judges and prosecutors in every jurisdiction, and fighting for favorable outcomes in cases ranging from first-time offenses to repeat DWI charges carrying mandatory jail time. I know which Nassau County prosecutors negotiate and which ones don’t. I know how Suffolk County courts differ from Nassau County courts. I know which Hamptons judges are fair and which ones follow rigid sentencing guidelines. This knowledge can mean the difference between a favorable plea deal and a conviction that costs you your license, your job, and your freedom.
7-Time Best Lawyer of Long Island • Trailblazer Award Winner • Over 2,000 Clients Represented • 31+ Years Defending DWI Cases Across Long Island. Call Now: (631) 903-3733
Why Long Island DWI Defense Requires Comprehensive Local Knowledge
Long Island isn’t one jurisdiction. It’s Nassau County, Suffolk County, and the Hamptons, and each one handles DWI cases very differently. Nassau County has the most aggressive DWI prosecution in New York State, with strict internal guidelines that limit plea bargaining and prosecutors who routinely ask for jail time even on first offenses. Suffolk County operates with more decentralized courts spread across Riverhead, Central Islip, and dozens of town and village courts where local relationships and knowledge of individual judges matter tremendously. The Hamptons add another layer of complexity, with seasonal enforcement priorities and courts that handle everything from local cases to high-profile arrests.
I practice in all of them, every single week. I know which Nassau County prosecutors will consider reducing charges and which ones won’t budge. I know which Suffolk County judges give fair consideration to mitigation arguments and which ones impose mandatory jail time on repeat offenders. I know which Hamptons courts move quickly and which require more strategic patience. This isn’t theoretical knowledge. It’s the result of 31 years of actually defending DWI cases in every Long Island courthouse, appearing before every judge, and negotiating with every prosecutor’s office.
When you hire me, you get a lawyer who knows the system inside and out, who has the trial experience to fight back when prosecutors won’t negotiate, and who understands the nuances that make Long Island DWI defense different from anywhere else in New York State. For county-specific representation, learn more about my DWI defense work in Suffolk County, Nassau County, and throughout Long Island.
- Best Lawyer on Long Island 7-time FLCU (formerly BFCU) winner
- Trailblazer Award Winner
- Over 2,000Clients Represented
- Available 24/7Call or text Now: (631) 903-3733
Arrested For A Criminal or DWI charge? You Probably Have A Number Of Questions:
- Will I go to jail?
- Will I be placed on probation?
- Will I have a permanent criminal record?
- Will I lose my license?
- What happens when I go to court?
- How long will the court process last?
- How can I find the best lawyer to defend me?
Notable DWI Results
Edward represented a New Jersey Businessman charged with DWI
Long Island DWI Lawyer Edward Palermo negotiates a reduction of the criminal charges to a non-criminal traffic violation.
Medical Doctor charged with DWI
Edward Palermo negotiates reduction to simple traffic infraction to insure no negative impact on Doctor’s career.
Pennsylvania business man charged with DWI
DWI Lawyer Edward Palermo negotiates a reduced charge of only a single traffic violation.
Edward Palermo represented student at Stony Brook University charged with DWI
Again, Edward negotiates a reduction of the criminal charges to a non-criminal traffic violation.
Edward Palermo represented a Brooklyn resident in a DWI charge on Long Island
As a successful real estate broker, the client was concerned about the effect a criminal conviction would have on his professional license and livelihood. The District Attorney would not reduce the charge to a non-criminal traffic violation because the client was previously arrested for driving while intoxicated. Edward found a flaw in the prosecution’s handling of the case and made a motion to dismiss the case. The motion was granted in its entirety and the case was completely DISMISSED.
Client charged with aggravated DWI
Client is a financial professional and his future career advancement was in jeopardy if convicted of this serious misdemeanor crime. The Suffolk County District Attorney VERY RARELY agrees to reduce such a charge because of the elevated Blood Alcohol Content finding by police. Long Island DWI Attorney Edward Palermo negotiated an extremely favorable resolution which will lead to the reduction of the aggravated DWI to a simple traffic infraction after 1 year of good behavior by the client. His professional license and future career opportunities are secure.
Client charged with DWI after driving his vehicle into a residential home
The District Attorney originally recommended jail time. Long Island DWI Lawyer Edward Palermo negotiated a very favorable outcome which will lead to dismissal of criminal charges and only a traffic violation after 1 year of good conduct by client.
Client charged with aggravated DWI and additional violations with a motor vehicle accident
Edward Palermo scheduled the matter for trial before The Honorable Joseph Girardi of the Nassau County First District Court. First, Edward was able to obtain dismissal of the additional violations after motion during the trial and the client was then found NOT GUILTY of the aggravated DWI charge after trial. All charges dismissed and client, who is a teacher, was able to resume his life and career with a clean record.
Meet Ed Palermo
I’ve 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 defense and DWI cases in Nassau County courts, Suffolk County courts, and throughout Long Island.
I appear regularly in the criminal courts across Long Island, including the Nassau County Court in Mineola, the Suffolk County Court in Riverhead, the Cohalan Court Complex in Central Islip, and local village and town justice courts from Long Beach to 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.
TEXT ED DIRECTLY: (631) 903-3733
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 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 District Attorney’s case.
Education:
- Hofstra University – B.A. (1990)
- Hofstra University School of Law – J.D. (1994)
Court Admissions:
- All New York State Courts
- U.S. District Court, Eastern District of New York (EDNY)
- U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York (SDNY)
Professional Recognition:
- 7-Time Best Lawyer on Long Island (2019–2024 & 2026)
- New York Law Journal Trailblazer Award (2019)
- AVVO Rating: 10/10 “Superb”
- National Trial Lawyers Top 100
- National Association of Distinguished Counsel – Top One Percent
- Member-Nationsl College for DUI 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.
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Strategic DWI Defense Across All Long Island Jurisdictions
A driving while intoxicated arrest anywhere on Long Island triggers an immediate legal crisis that targets your license, your career, and your personal liberty. Whether you were pulled over by the Nassau County Police on the state parkways or a local East End municipal squad on Route 27, the regional prosecution metrics are severe. Both Nassau and Suffolk County District Attorney offices operate under rigid, unyielding plea-bargaining policies specifically designed to secure criminal convictions. Defending your future requires an elite advocate with 31+ years of pure courtroom defense experience.
TEXT ED DIRECTLY: (631) 903-3733
Select Your Local County for Specific Court Defense Layouts:
For targeted legal strategies tailored to local precinct testing procedures and specific arraignment courtrooms, review our deep-dive resources for Nassau County DWI Arrests or explore our comprehensive guide to fighting a Suffolk County DWI Prosecution.
Comprehensive Courtroom Command Across Long Island Vehicular Parts
Navigating drunk driving allegations demands deep familiarity with local courthouse rules and the specialized vehicular crimes bureaus on Long Island. As a 7-time Best Lawyer on Long Island winner, I provide aggressive representation across the primary judicial hubs managing these files, including:
- Hempstead
(Nassau First District Court) - Central Islip
(Suffolk First District Court) - Mineola & Riverhead
(Felony Vehicular Bureaus) - The Hamptons
(East End Town & Village Courts)
From first-offense misdemeanors to complex felony indictments and blood-draw warrants, our legal strategy focuses on exposing machine calibration errors and constitutional violations to protect your future.
The 15-Day Rule: Chemical Test Refusals and DMV Hearings
If the state alleges that you refused to submit to a chemical breath test at the police precinct, your driving privileges face an immediate administrative threat completely separate from your criminal court track. By law, the burden is placed squarely on the Department of Motor Vehicles to provide you with a formal DMV Refusal Hearing within a strict 15-day window from your arraignment. If the department fails to secure a hearing date for you within those 15 days, your driving suspension is legally lifted and your operator’s license automatically becomes valid again, fully restoring your driving privileges pending the eventual, rescheduled hearing date. Navigating these narrow institutional timelines requires immediate, strategic intervention to hold the state to its strict structural burdens.
Felony Drunk Driving and Elevated Forensics
When a DWI allegation is upgraded to a felony grade—due to a prior conviction within the preceding 10 years or an arrest under Leandra’s Law with a minor in the vehicle—the penalties escalate dramatically. Felony prosecutions are handled by specialized vehicular bureaus in Mineola and Riverhead, where prosecutors routinely pursue state prison sentences and permanent vehicle forfeitures. Furthermore, when a chemical sample reveals an extreme blood alcohol concentration, the state upgrades the charges to an Aggravated DWI (.18% BAC or Higher). Defending these complex cases demands an exhaustive review of technicalities, from machine maintenance logs to blood-draw warrants, to uncover structural cracks in the prosecution’s case.
Strategic Practice Matrix: Defending Long Island Motorists
A standardized defense is entirely useless against state breathalyzer data and forensic evidence. Over my 31+ years of trial experience, I have broken down machine calibration histories and police processing logs to build ironclad strategies across every variation of drunk driving allegations.
TEXT ED DIRECTLY: (631) 903-3733
Comprehensive DWI Litigation Capabilities
We provide exhaustive pre-trial investigations and aggressive representation for individuals facing misdemeanor and felony vehicular accusations, including:
| Misdemeanor DWI First Offense | Attacking the initial basis for the traffic stop, challenging standardized roadside field sobriety tests, and exposing procedural errors in breathalyzer room observations. |
| Felony DWI / Leandra’s Law | Defending high-stakes felony indictments involving prior offenses or minor passengers, focusing on suppressing blood testing records and police interview logs. |
| Chemical Test Refusals | Representing operators at the police precinct booking level and executing full administrative trial hearings before the New York Department of Motor Vehicles. |
| Aggravated DWI (.18%+) | Challenging forensic breath testing equipment, software version logs, and simulator solution variances to counter high-range chemical readings. |
Immediate Defense Response: Protect Your Future 24/7
The choices made in the first hours following a DWI stop heavily influence your case’s trajectory. If you are currently awaiting arraignment or if a family member is being held at a local precinct booking facility, do not make statements to law enforcement investigators. Retaining an experienced, 7-time Best of Long Island winner to step in immediately allows you to protect your license options and build a comprehensive defense right away. Call or text my direct cell line now to put 31+ years of trial experience in your corner.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are the DWI laws in Long Island, and how do they apply to my case?
Long Island follows New York State laws, which set specific blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits and outline the proper procedures for field sobriety and chemical testing. An experienced attorney will review your case details to ensure all legal protocols were followed and challenge any evidence that was improperly obtained.
What are the potential penalties for a DWI conviction in Long Island?
Penalties can range from fines, license suspension, and mandatory alcohol education to probation or even jail time—especially if you have prior offenses. The exact consequences depend on your BAC, circumstances, and any aggravating factors, making personalized legal guidance critical. Learn more.
How can a Long Island DWI attorney help me fight my charges?
A dedicated attorney will scrutinize every step of your arrest, from the traffic stop to the administration of tests. They’ll identify any procedural errors or constitutional violations, negotiate with prosecutors, and develop a tailored defense strategy to reduce or dismiss the charges.
What happens to my driver’s license after a DWI arrest?
Your license may be suspended immediately after an arrest. However, a skilled attorney can work with the Department of Motor Vehicles and the courts to seek a restricted license or explore options to expedite its reinstatement.
How long does a DWI stay on my record in Long Island?
Typically, a DWI conviction remains on your driving record for up to 10 years. In some cases, there may be opportunities for expungement or record sealing depending on your circumstances and subsequent legal outcomes.
For more information on the length of a DWI record, continue reading here.
What happens after a DWI Arrest in Long Island, NY?
After a DWI arrest, expect license suspension, an arraignment date, and immediate penalties. Consulting an experienced DWI attorney quickly protects your rights and may mitigate consequences. Learn more.
What is the difference between DWI, DWAI, and aggravated DWI?
A standard DWI typically involves a BAC over the legal limit, while DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) applies to cases with a lower BAC. Aggravated DWI involves additional factors such as injuries or significant property damage, resulting in harsher penalties.
Read more about the difference between DWI, DWAI, and aggravated DWI.
How does a DWI affect my car insurance rates?
A DWI conviction is likely to result in significantly higher insurance premiums because insurers view you as a higher risk. An attorney may help mitigate the impact by securing reduced charges or exploring alternative sentencing that can lessen the long-term effects on your insurance.
How much does it cost to hire a DWI lawyer in Long Island?
Legal fees vary based on the complexity of your case and the attorney’s experience. Many firms offer free initial consultations and work with flexible payment plans to ensure that quality defense is accessible regardless of your financial situation.
Learn more about the different factors that contribute to the cost of a DWI lawyer in Long Island.
Why should I choose your law firm to represent me in my DWI case?
Our firm combines extensive local expertise with a proven track record in DWI defense. We offer personalized attention, aggressive advocacy, and a commitment to protecting your rights, ensuring every aspect of your case is meticulously handled for the best possible outcome.
Learn more about why you should hire Ed Palermo for your case.
What Should I Look for in a Criminal Defense Attorney In New York?
When choosing a criminal defense attorney in New York, look for deep knowledge of local laws and procedures, a proven track record of successful outcomes, strong relationships with prosecutors and judges, transparent billing, and a personalized approach with clear communication. Ed Palermo exemplifies these qualities, offering decades of experience, documented results, and a client-focused strategy tailored to protect your future.
Read more about things to consider when looking for a criminal defense attorney.
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
