Over 31 years · Long Island criminal defense
Over 31 years · Long Island criminal defense
I've personally defended over 2,000 people across Nassau & Suffolk for 31 years. Tell me what happened and I'll text you back.
150+ Five-Star Reviews
"Superb" Avvo Rating for over a decade
Westbury DWI Defense Lawyer
If you have been arrested for DWI in Westbury, your license, freedom, and future are at risk. I am Edward Palermo, a DWI defense attorney with over 31 years of experience.
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
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
Westbury’s position in Nassau County creates unique DWI enforcement patterns. The Northern State Parkway, Jericho Turnpike, and local roads see regular patrols and checkpoints. Understanding these patterns is crucial to building an effective defense.
I know the prosecutors who handle DWI cases in the Nassau County First District Court and the County Court in Mineola. I understand their tendencies, what they look for in plea negotiations, and how they prepare for trial. This knowledge directly benefits my clients.
After 31 years defending DWI cases, I have encountered virtually every scenario: every type of arrest, every kind of evidence issue, every defense strategy. This experience allows me to quickly assess your case, identify the best defense approach, and execute that strategy effectively.
My clients benefit from three decades of relationships, knowledge, and courtroom skills. When you hire me, you are not just getting an attorney—you are getting an advocate with 31 years of experience fighting for your rights.
My track record speaks for itself: thousands of successfully defended cases, 7 Best Lawyer of Long Island awards, and countless clients who have moved past their DWI charges to lead successful lives.
Recognized by the community
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
I represented a Connecticut resident and professional school teacher who was arrested following a motor vehicle accident while traveling home from a concert at Jones Beach. The prosecution and local law enforcement were heavily motivated, relying on statements from the other driver involved in the crash and arresting officers who insisted that my client was behind the wheel while intoxicated.
Facing a career-ending criminal conviction and potential jail time, we refused to accept a plea bargain and pushed the matter to a full trial. I aggressively contested the state’s evidence to show that the prosecution lacked proof beyond a reasonable doubt on the critical element of motor vehicle operation. First, I obtained dismissal of the additional violations on motion during the trial. Following a comprehensive bench trial before the Honorable Joseph Girardi of the Nassau County First District Court, the court returned a NOT GUILTY verdict, completely exonerating my client and saving his teaching career.
When prosecutors demand jail time and refuse to back down, your future depends on an experienced trial attorney. Text my cell directly 24/7 to put 31+ years of trial experience in your corner.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Legal disclaimer
I represented a Connecticut resident and professional school teacher who was arrested following a motor vehicle accident while traveling home from a concert at Jones Beach. The prosecution and local law enforcement were heavily motivated, relying on statements from the other driver involved in the crash and arresting officers who insisted that my client was behind the wheel while intoxicated.
I represented a crane operator who worked in New York City. A misdemeanor conviction would have cost him his employment, because his career depended on a clean record. I took the case to trial before Judge Girardi in Nassau County First District Court, and the jury came back with a NOT GUILTY verdict on the driving while intoxicated charge. My client walked out of court with his job, his license, and his future intact.
I represented a truck driver charged with driving while intoxicated in Nassau District Court. Any conviction for DWI, or even the reduced charge of driving while ability impaired, would have caused a one-year revocation of his commercial driver's license and ended his career. I negotiated a disposition down to a speeding ticket, avoiding any alcohol-related finding. My client kept his CDL and his livelihood.
Meet Ed Palermo
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
“During the most difficult time of my life, l contacted…”
During the most difficult time of my life, l contacted Mr. Ed Palermo to represent me in criminal court for DWI. From the very beginning, his professionalism was exemplary. Considering the legal complexities of my case, he guided me and addressed every one of my concerns. He kept me informed and assured me of a favorable outcome in spite of tremendous odds. I highly recommend Mr. Ed Palermo to anyone wishing to obtain skilled legal representation in criminal court.
“...when I tell you he got my case dismissed i mean DISMISSED...”
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
“I have nothing but wonderful things to say about this…”
I have nothing but wonderful things to say about this firm. Ed Palermo is a highly contentious criminal defense attorney and an aggressive litigator. From the time I hired Edward Palermo, I knew I had chosen the right attorney for my DWI case. He is extremely professional, and knowledgeable. His "right hand" Paralegal Bea Alvarez is amazing and is always available to assist and answer any questions. I can't speak highly enough about this firm. If you find yourself in need of an experience attorney, who will make you feel a priority as his only client, this is the one. You will not be disappointed.
DWI defense requires understanding complex scientific concepts. Breathalyzer machines measure breath alcohol concentration and convert it to blood alcohol estimates. This process involves assumptions about body temperature, breathing patterns, and metabolism that may not apply to every individual.
Blood tests are considered more accurate but still require proper collection, handling, and analysis. Contamination, improper storage temperatures, and laboratory errors can all compromise results.
Field sobriety tests were developed for specific populations under controlled conditions. Performance on these tests can be affected by age, weight, medical conditions, medications, footwear, surface conditions, and anxiety—factors unrelated to alcohol impairment.
My technical understanding of these issues allows me to challenge evidence that other attorneys might accept at face value. This knowledge has saved countless clients from convictions.
CLICK HERE TO TEXT MY PERSONAL CELL: (631) 903-3733
I defend DWI cases throughout Nassau County, including Garden City, Mineola, Hempstead, Long Beach, and Carle Place.
Westbury’s location along the Northern State Parkway creates significant DWI enforcement. For 31 years, I have defended clients facing DWI charges in Nassau County.
First offense carries 6-month license suspension, fines $500-$2,500, potential jail, and ignition interlock.
BAC of .18% or higher brings mandatory jail time even for first offenders.
Driving intoxicated with a child under 16 is a felony with up to 4 years in prison.
Refusing the breathalyzer can cost your license for 1 year minimum. You have 15 days to request a hearing.
Second convictions within 10 years bring felony charges and mandatory prison time.
Police must have reasonable suspicion. Illegal stops result in evidence suppression.
These tests are subjective and often administered improperly.
Breathalyzers require calibration. Blood tests need proper collection.
Your BAC at testing may have exceeded levels when driving.
If you were arrested for DWI in Westbury, time is critical. Evidence preservation, the 15-day refusal hearing deadline, and early negotiation opportunities all demand immediate action. Every client receives my personal cell phone number and I am available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Your initial consultation is free and confidential.
Remain calm and polite. Provide your license, registration, and insurance. You are not required to answer questions about alcohol consumption. Politely state you wish to remain silent and want an attorney. Call me immediately: (631) 903-3733.
First offense brings 6-month suspension, though you may qualify for a conditional license. Refusal to take the breathalyzer brings 1-year revocation.
I offer free consultations and flexible payment plans. Costs vary based on case complexity.
Yes. I have secured dismissals by challenging illegal stops, unreliable tests, and improper procedures.
If you refused the breathalyzer, you have 15 days to request a DMV hearing. Missing this deadline means automatic 1-year license revocation.
It can, especially if you drive for work or hold a professional license. I work to minimize these impacts.
