Award Winning &
Highly Rated
I have been voted "Best Lawyer on Long Island for the last 5 years, 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 treasure my clients and will do everything in my power to get you a great result.
- Ed Palermo
Montauk Criminal Defense Lawyer
When You Are Arrested in Montauk, You Need a Local Advocate Who Knows the Courts
I know how scary it is to see blue lights flashing in your rearview mirror on Montauk Highway near the Lighthouse, or getting pulled over in the village. Whether you were stopped near Ditch Plains, questioned at Gosman’s Dock, or arrested leaving a summer event, you need an attorney who knows Montauk—not just any Suffolk County lawyer.
I am Edward Palermo, and for over 31 years, I have defended clients in Montauk and throughout the East End. I know the local enforcement patterns, the court procedures, and how to get results for clients facing criminal charges at the very end of Long Island.
Montauk is unique—it’s the last stop, a fishing village turned destination spot, with state parks, beaches, and a different vibe than the rest of the Hamptons. But enforcement is still aggressive here, especially during summer weekends when visitors flock to the point.
When you hire me, you get my personal cell:
(631) 903-3733
I answer personally, 24/7. No secretaries, no delays.
I treasure my clients, and I will do everything in my power to get you a great result.
Local Courts I Serve
- East Hampton Town Justice Court — Pantigo Road, East Hampton (serves Montauk)
- Suffolk County Court — Riverhead (felony trials)
Notable Case Results
With over 31 years of experience defending clients in Montauk and throughout Long Island, I have achieved numerous successful outcomes. From dismissals to acquittals to reduced charges, my track record speaks for itself. Every case is unique, and I bring the same dedication and aggressive defense to each client I represent.
Notable Verdicts & Results
First Degree Assault and Multiple Felonies
NOT GUILTY
Edward Palermo represented a young man charged with first degree assault and a number of assorted felonies and misdemeanors. The charges carried a maximum sentence of 25 years and a minimum sentence of 5 years upon conviction. The assigned Suffolk County District Attorney offered a sentence of 15 years. Edward rejected the offer and scheduled the matter for trial in the New York State Supreme Court. The trial lasted for four weeks and approximately 15 witnesses, including 3 experts, testified. The jury needed only four hours to acquit Edward's client of the assault first degree and all other charges. The case was reported in Newsday.
First Degree Robbery (Gunpoint)
NOT GUILTY
Edward Palermo represented a client accused of a gunpoint First Degree Robbery wherein the client faced up to 25 years in state prison. Once again, Edward convinced a Suffolk County Jury to acquit his client.
Second Degree Burglary (Three Strikes Case)
NOT GUILTY
Edward Palermo represented a client charged with a violent Second Degree Burglary allegation. The client faced the three strikes rule and life imprisonment. Edward tried the case and convinced a fair-minded Suffolk County Jury that his client was not guilty of the charge. The client was then immediately released after having been detained in jail for more than 8 months while awaiting trial.
First Degree Rape (Two Defendants)
NOT GUILTY
Edward Palermo represented two people charged with First Degree Rape. Each faced 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.
Major Drug and Weapons Charges
Felony Dismissed, No Jail
Edward Palermo 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. Edward was hired after bail was set at a million dollars with the man's prior counsel. The client faced upwards of a decade in State prison if convicted. Edward first re-argued bail and successfully lowered the amount to $400,000, which the client posted. He then successfully motioned the Court to dismiss the marijuana charge. Finally, he negotiated a very favorable disposition to a misdemeanor where the client received no jail and no probation. The District Attorney's Office also agreed to return a large sum of cash that was seized from the client at the time of his arrest.
Edward represented a New Jersey Businessman charged with DWI
East Hampton 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
East Hampton DWI Lawyer Edward Palermo negotiates a reduced charge of only a single traffic violation.
NOT GUILTY
Forcible Touching
Charges dismissed after trial! Edward represented a young MRI technician in Nassau County District Court facing a very serious allegation of forcible touching by patient. Edward rejected plea bargain offer from District Attorney as client maintained innocence and needed dismissal of charge. Edward took the case to trial and verdict of not guilty was returned. Clients career and life restored.
About Attorney Edward Palermo
Name: Edward R. Palermo
Experience: 30+ years exclusively defending criminal cases, 2,000+ clients represented
Office: 9 Willow Lane, East Hampton, NY 11937
Courts Served: Montauk area courts, Suffolk County Court
Phone: (631) 265-1052 | Cell: (631) 903-3733 (24/7)
AVVO Rating: 10.0 “Superb”
Recognition: NY Law Journal Trailblazer, Best of Long Island (5 consecutive years)
For over 30 years, I have defended clients in Montauk and throughout the East End. I understand the local courts, the prosecutors, and how to get results for my clients. When you hire me, you get my personal commitment to your case. I will fight aggressively to protect your rights and your future.
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.
Online Ratings
Practice Areas
View AllMontauk Criminal Defense Information
When facing criminal charges in Montauk, you need an attorney who understands this unique community at the easternmost tip of Long Island. From the Lighthouse to Ditch Plains to the village harbor area, law enforcement maintains a steady presence—particularly during the busy summer season.
I have successfully defended clients against all types of criminal charges in Montauk and throughout Suffolk County. With over 31 years of experience, I bring deep knowledge of criminal law and local court procedures to every case. Whether you are a year-round resident or were visiting when an incident occurred, I will fight to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
Hear From Ed
I treasure my clients and will do everything in my power to get you a great result.
DWI Defense in Montauk
If you are facing DWI or traffic-related charges in Montauk, I provide specialized defense for driving while intoxicated cases.
Facing DWI Charges?
Montauk sees aggressive DWI enforcement, especially during summer months. You need an experienced DWI attorney who knows the local courts.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What should I do immediately after being arrested in Montauk?
Stay calm and be polite with police, but do not answer questions about the incident beyond providing basic identification. Do not consent to searches. Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible—ideally before making any statements. Call me at (631) 265-1051 or text (631) 903-3733.
Will a Montauk arrest appear on my record?
An arrest may appear on background checks even if you're not convicted. However, if charges are dismissed or reduced to a non-criminal violation, you may have options to limit what appears on your record. The outcome of your case matters significantly for your long-term record.
Can I lose my job over a criminal charge in New York?
It depends on your profession and employer. Certain licensed professionals—doctors, nurses, teachers, financial advisors, real estate agents—face potential disciplinary action from licensing boards. Even for non-licensed positions, a conviction can affect employment. That's why aggressive defense and pursuing the best possible outcome is so important.
How much does a Montauk criminal defense attorney cost?
Legal fees vary based on the complexity of your case and the charges involved. I offer free initial consultations where we can discuss your situation and what representation would involve. The cost of not having proper representation—a conviction, job loss, or damaged reputation—is often far greater than attorney fees.
What's the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in New York?
Misdemeanors are less serious offenses carrying up to one year in jail. Felonies are more serious and can result in state prison sentences exceeding one year. Both can create permanent criminal records that affect your future. Even misdemeanor charges deserve serious defense.
Can you help if I was arrested somewhere else on the East End?
Yes. I handle criminal cases throughout the East End, including East Hampton, Southampton, Sag Harbor, Amagansett, Bridgehampton, and Riverhead. My East Hampton office serves clients across this entire region.
Honors & Recognition
