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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 Drug Possession 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.

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

East Hampton Drug Possession Lawyer

Aggressive East Hampton Drug Possession Defense

As an experienced criminal defense attorney with over three decades of practice, I have dedicated my career to defending individuals facing serious legal challenges, including drug possession charges. If you have been accused of drug possession in East Hampton or the Hamptons area, you need a knowledgeable and aggressive defense lawyer to protect your rights. A conviction for drug possession can have severe and long-lasting consequences, but with the right legal representation, you can fight the charges and work towards a favorable resolution.

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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

Early Intervention is Critical

One of the most crucial steps in fighting drug possession charges is obtaining legal representation as soon as possible. Early intervention allows me to start building your defense immediately, preserve crucial evidence, and explore potential options for reducing or dismissing the charges. Delaying action can limit your legal options and make it more challenging to fight the case effectively.

My Commitment to Clients

Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to providing personalized, client-focused representation. I understand that being charged with drug possession can be a stressful and life-altering experience. That is why I take the time to listen to your concerns, explain your legal options in clear terms, and guide you through every step of the legal process.

My commitment to excellence has earned me recognition as one of the top defense attorneys on Long Island, including being named the best lawyer on Long Island for five consecutive years. I have successfully defended numerous clients against serious drug possession charges, and I am prepared to do the same for you.

Why Choose Ed Palermo as Your East Hampton Drug Possession Lawyer?

When facing drug possession charges, selecting the right attorney can make all the difference. Here’s why I am the right choice for your defense:

  • Over 31 Years of Criminal Defense Experience
  • Proven Track Record of Success in Drug Possession Cases
  • Aggressive and Strategic Defense Strategies
  • Personalized Attention and Client-Focused Representation
  • Extensive Knowledge of New York Drug Laws

I am passionate about defending my clients and ensuring that their rights are upheld. Whether this is your first offense or you have prior convictions, I will work tirelessly to protect your freedom and future.

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 Marijuana and Weapons Charges Reduced to Misdemeanor REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR, NO JAIL

I represented a man charged with Criminal Possession of Marijuana in the First Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree in the Suffolk County Supreme Court. I was hired after bail had been set at one million dollars with prior counsel, and my client faced upwards of a decade in state prison. I re-argued bail and got it lowered to $400,000, which my client posted. I then successfully moved the court to dismiss the marijuana charge, and negotiated a disposition to a misdemeanor with no jail and no probation. The District Attorney's Office also agreed to return a large sum of cash seized at the time of arrest. My client told me I was his attorney for life.

Notable Drug & Weapon Charge Case Results

REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR, NO JAIL

First Degree Marijuana and Weapons Charges Reduced to Misdemeanor

I represented a man charged with Criminal Possession of Marijuana in the First Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree in the Suffolk County Supreme Court. I was hired after bail had been set at one million dollars with prior counsel, and my client faced upwards of a decade in state prison. I re-argued bail and got it lowered to $400,000, which my client posted. I then successfully moved the court to dismiss the marijuana charge, and negotiated a disposition to a misdemeanor with no jail and no probation. The District Attorney's Office also agreed to return a large sum of cash seized at the time of arrest. My client told me I was his attorney for life.

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 MISDEMEANOR, NO JAIL

Felony Weapon and Munitions Charges Reduced to Misdemeanor

I represented a client charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon as a felony, along with Criminal Possession of a High Caliber Munition, charges that could have resulted in years of state prison. Through strategic negotiation, I secured a disposition reducing the charges to a simple misdemeanor with no jail time and no probation. My client was able to return to his home state knowing the case would be sealed after three years and his record would remain clean.

NO TRUE BILL, CASE DISMISSED

Multiple Felony Counts for Firing a Firearm in a Crowded Neighborhood

I represented a client charged with multiple felony counts for firing a firearm in a crowded Nassau County neighborhood, prosecuted in the Nassau County Courthouse in Mineola. My client maintained his innocence. After evaluating the evidence, including cell phone records, I prepared him to testify before a Nassau County Grand Jury. He testified flawlessly, the Grand Jury issued a No True Bill, and the case was dismissed.

REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR, NO JAIL

Felony Loaded Weapon Charge in Nassau County

I represented a client facing a felony loaded weapon charge in the Nassau County Courthouse in Mineola, with exposure of up to 15 years in prison and a minimum of three and a half years if convicted. I negotiated a misdemeanor with no jail time. Nassau County is very tough on gun cases, and experience matters when you are accused of gun charges here.

ACD, SEALED AND DISMISSED

Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance

I represented a client charged with drug possession and resolved the case through an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal. The case was sealed and dismissed after six months, leaving my client with a clean record.

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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

Edward Palermo Will Advocate For You

Why Criminal Defense Is Essential in Drug Possession Cases

Facing drug possession charges can be overwhelming, especially if this is your first encounter with the legal system. A conviction can result in jail time, financial hardship, and a permanent criminal record that can impact future employment and housing opportunities. That is why having an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side is critical.

As a dedicated East Hampton Drug Possession Lawyer, I have spent years defending clients against serious criminal charges. I understand the intricacies of drug possession laws and the ways law enforcement may attempt to prosecute these cases. My priority is to ensure that your constitutional rights are upheld and that you receive a fair defense.

Understanding Drug Possession Charges in East Hampton

Drug possession is a serious criminal offense in New York, and the penalties can vary depending on the type and amount of the controlled substance in question. In many cases, drug possession charges stem from routine traffic stops, searches, or police investigations. However, just because you have been charged does not mean you are guilty. As your East Hampton Drug Possession Lawyer, I will analyze the evidence, examine police procedures, and build a strong defense strategy tailored to your case.

In New York, drug possession charges are categorized based on the type of drug involved, including:

  • Marijuana Possession (though laws regarding marijuana have changed, some charges still apply in specific situations)
  • Cocaine and Heroin Possession
  • Prescription Drug Possession (including opioids and other controlled substances without a valid prescription)
  • Methamphetamine and Synthetic Drug Possession

The severity of the charges can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, with penalties including fines, probation, mandatory treatment programs, and incarceration. Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer can make a significant difference in how your case is handled and its ultimate outcome.

Common Defenses in Drug Possession Cases

Many people assume that if drugs were found in their possession, there is no way to fight the charges. However, that is not always the case. There are several legal defenses that may apply to your situation, including:

  • Illegal Search and Seizure: Law enforcement officers must follow strict procedures when conducting searches. If your Fourth Amendment rights were violated during an unlawful search, I can challenge the admissibility of the evidence against you.
  • Lack of Knowledge: In some cases, individuals may not have been aware that drugs were in their possession. If this can be proven, it may serve as a strong defense.
  • Entrapment: If law enforcement induced or coerced you into committing a crime you otherwise would not have committed, entrapment may be a valid defense.
  • Insufficient Evidence: Prosecutors must prove every element of a drug possession charge beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is insufficient evidence linking you to the drugs, I will work to have your case dismissed.

How I Can Help You Fight Drug Possession Charges

As your East Hampton Drug Possession Lawyer, my job is to aggressively defend your rights and seek the best possible resolution for your case. I will:

  • Thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your arrest
  • Challenge any evidence obtained through illegal or improper procedures
  • Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges when possible
  • Advocate for alternatives to incarceration, such as rehabilitation programs
  • Represent you in court with a strong and strategic defense

My extensive experience in criminal defense allows me to anticipate the prosecution’s tactics and build a defense designed to protect your future. Whether negotiating for a favorable plea deal or taking your case to trial, I am committed to securing the best outcome possible.

Contact Me Today for a Strong Defense

If you have been charged with drug possession in East Hampton, do not face this legal battle alone. Contact Ed Palermo today for a confidential consultation. I will review your case, explain your legal options, and begin developing a defense strategy to protect your rights.

Drug possession charges are serious, but with the right defense attorney on your side, you have the opportunity to fight the allegations and work toward a positive resolution. Call now to schedule your consultation and take the first step in defending your future.

Honors & Recognition