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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 Contempt Charge in East Hampton? 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.

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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

East Hampton Criminal Contempt Lawyer

Aggressive Criminal Contempt Defense in East Hampton 

If you have been charged with criminal contempt in the Hamptons, you need a dedicated and experienced criminal defense attorney to fight for your rights. As a seasoned defense lawyer with over 30 years of experience, I have helped countless individuals navigate the complexities of the legal system and achieve favorable outcomes in their cases. A criminal contempt charge can have serious consequences, including jail time, fines, and lasting damage to your reputation. I am here to provide the strong and strategic defense you need to protect your future.

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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

The Importance of Criminal Defense in Criminal Contempt Cases

Facing criminal contempt charges is a serious matter that requires immediate legal representation. Prosecutors aggressively pursue these cases, particularly when protective orders are involved. Without the right defense strategy, you could face severe penalties that affect your personal and professional life.

As an experienced East Hampton criminal contempt attorney, I understand the complexities of criminal contempt laws and know how to build a strong case on your behalf. Whether your charges stem from a misunderstanding, an unfair accusation, or a procedural error, I am committed to ensuring that you receive a fair trial and the best possible outcome.

Why Choose Ed Palermo as Your East Hampton Criminal Contempt Lawyer?

When selecting a defense attorney to handle your criminal contempt case, experience and dedication matter. Here’s why I am the right choice for your legal representation:

  • Over 31 Years of Criminal Defense Experience
  • Proven Track Record of Success in Criminal Contempt Cases
  • Aggressive and Strategic Defense Tactics
  • Deep Knowledge of East Hampton’s Legal System
  • Personalized Legal Representation Focused on Your Best Interests

With my extensive experience and commitment to excellence, I will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and work towards the best possible outcome for your case.

Early Legal Representation is Key

If you have been accused of criminal contempt, it is critical to seek legal representation as soon as possible. The earlier I get involved in your case, the better your chances of achieving a favorable resolution. Early intervention allows me to:

  • Gather evidence and build a strong defense
  • Challenge procedural errors or misconduct by law enforcement
  • Negotiate with prosecutors to seek a reduction or dismissal of charges
  • Develop a strategy to minimize the potential consequences of your case

A proactive approach can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. As a dedicated criminal defense attorney, I will stand by your side and fight for your rights every step of the way.

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

Second Degree Criminal Contempt, Order of Protection DISMISSED

I represented a client charged with violating an order of protection. I demonstrated that my client had a legitimate reason for the contact and that no willful violation occurred, and the charge was dismissed.

Notable Verdicts & Results

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.

REDUCED TO TRAFFIC INFRACTION

Medical Doctor Charged with DWI in Suffolk County

I represented a medical doctor charged with DWI in Suffolk County. A criminal conviction would have triggered mandatory reporting to the New York State Board of Professional Medical Conduct and threatened his medical license. I negotiated a reduction to a simple traffic infraction, ensuring no negative impact on his career or licensing.

REDUCED TO TRAFFIC VIOLATION

Pennsylvania Businessman Charged with DWI in Suffolk County

I represented a Pennsylvania businessman charged with DWI in Suffolk County. I negotiated a favorable resolution reducing the charge to a single traffic violation, protecting him from both New York criminal exposure and Pennsylvania licensing penalties.

NO CRIMINAL CONVICTION

Client Charged with Sexual Abuse of Two Minors

I represented a client charged with the sexual abuse of two minors. I negotiated a reduction to two disorderly conduct violations. There was no criminal conviction, and my client was only required to pay a small fine.

REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR, NO JAIL

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.

REDUCED TO TRAFFIC INFRACTION

Financial Professional Charged with Aggravated DWI

I represented a financial professional facing Aggravated DWI charges under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1192(2-a)(a). His career advancement was in jeopardy if convicted of this serious misdemeanor, and the Suffolk County District Attorney rarely agrees to reduce these charges because of the elevated blood alcohol reading. I negotiated a resolution that reduced the Aggravated DWI to a simple traffic infraction after one year of good behavior. His professional license and future career opportunities were fully secured.

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.

FAVORABLE DISPOSITION

Former Police Officer Charged with Leaving the Scene of a Fatal Accident

I represented a former police officer charged with leaving the scene of a fatal accident on Long Island. I negotiated a very favorable disposition for my client. The case was the subject of a Newsday story focused on lenient results in leaving-the-scene cases.

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Meet Ed Palermo

Your Hamptons 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 the Hamptons Office

“I cannot say enough good things about Ed Palermo. He’s…”
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I cannot say enough good things about Ed Palermo. He’s easy to talk to, always available to reach by text, very knowledgeable about the in’s and out’s of the law, respected by his peers, will do everything possible to help his client and he worked very hard to get me the resolution that I desired. His over 30 years of experience really shows when he is in the courtroom. By watching him, I could tell that he had the respect and the attention of every person there. He gets results. I’m so glad that I chose Ed to represent me. I would highly recommend Mr. Palermo to anyone who needs an attorney to represent them.

Steve Glover October 2025 Google
“Most people don’t realize that being a great attorney isn’t…”
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Most people don’t realize that being a great attorney isn’t just about knowledge of the law but it’s also about relationships! I had a small matter that needed to be cleared up. I went on Google and looked at several different attorneys, -the one thing that was most important to me was how many years they have been in practice. Ed has been practicing law for over 30 years and has relationships with judges and district attorney’s all over Long Island. The kind of relationships that somebody just out of law school wishes they had and eventually might. Ed cleared up my legal matter in less then three-months because of those relationships and his knowledge of the law. Working with Ed was an absolute pleasure because he is available via text message which is extremely important in today’s fast-paced world. I was able to communicate with him what was happening in real time. It was nice not to have to call his office - leave a message with the receptionist and wait for a callback. I highly recommend Ed Palermo for any legal matter that falls under his expertise. He is the best!

Mitch Maurer August 2023 Google
“I only have good words for Mr. Palermo. He assisted…”
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I only have good words for Mr. Palermo. He assisted me the same day that I was trying to find a good lawyer urgently. It is to recognize Mr. Palermo his good disposition for hear me on the 4th of July. From that day, everything evolved very smoothly and professionally and with a successful end to the case. Therefore, my most sincere congratulations for the good management of the case and my recommendation of Mr. Palermo to anyone who needs a good lawyer.

Pablo Perez-Bedmar July 2023 Google

Online Ratings

Ed Palermo Will Be Your Advocate

Understanding Criminal Contempt Charges in East Hampton

Criminal contempt is a charge that arises when an individual is accused of willfully disobeying a court order. This can happen in various situations, including violating restraining orders, ignoring court rulings, or showing disrespect to the court. In New York, criminal contempt is classified into different degrees based on the severity of the violation:

  • Criminal Contempt in the Second Degree (Class A Misdemeanor): This charge is often associated with disobeying court orders, including restraining orders, and can lead to up to one year in jail.
  • Criminal Contempt in the First Degree (Class E Felony): A more serious charge, this involves repeated violations or acts of intimidation and carries harsher penalties, including potential prison time.
  • Aggravated Criminal Contempt (Class D Felony): This charge applies when someone violates a protective order and causes physical injury to another person. Convictions can result in years of imprisonment.

Regardless of the level of the charge, a conviction can have a lasting impact on your life. As your East Hampton Criminal Contempt Lawyer, I will work tirelessly to challenge the prosecution’s case and protect your rights.

Possible Defenses for Criminal Contempt Charges

Every criminal contempt case is unique, and the defense strategy will depend on the circumstances of your case. Some potential defenses include:

  • Lack of Intent: To be convicted of criminal contempt, the prosecution must prove that you willfully disobeyed a court order. If the violation was accidental or due to a misunderstanding, I will argue that there was no intent to disregard the court’s authority.
  • False Allegations: In some cases, individuals make false accusations out of anger, revenge, or personal disputes. I will work to uncover inconsistencies and expose any false claims.
  • Insufficient Evidence: The burden of proof lies with the prosecution. If there is insufficient evidence to prove that you violated a court order, I will fight to have the charges dismissed.
  • Violation of Rights: If your rights were violated during the arrest or investigation process, I will challenge the legality of the evidence against you.

As your East Hampton Criminal Contempt Lawyer, I will explore every possible defense strategy to ensure that you receive a fair trial and the strongest defense possible.

Client-Focused Criminal Defense Representation

I understand that facing criminal charges is a stressful and overwhelming experience. That is why I take a client-centered approach, ensuring that you receive personalized attention and clear communication throughout the legal process. My goal is to provide not only a strong legal defense but also the support and guidance you need during this difficult time.

I take pride in my reputation as a trusted and aggressive criminal defense lawyer. Over the years, I have successfully defended countless clients facing criminal contempt charges, and I am prepared to do the same for you.

Contact Me Today for a Strong Defense

If you or a loved one is facing criminal contempt charges in the Hamptons area, don’t face this legal battle alone. Contact Ed Palermo today for a confidential consultation. I will review your case, explain your legal options, and begin building a defense strategy tailored to your needs.

Criminal contempt charges are serious, but with the right attorney on your side, you can fight back and seek a favorable resolution. Let me be your advocate and defender. Call now to schedule your consultation and take the first step in protecting your rights and your future.

Honors & Recognition