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
Defending Northport DWI Cases for Over 31 Years
If you have been arrested for DWI in Northport, your license, freedom, and future are at risk. You need an experienced DWI defense attorney who knows the Northport Village Court and how to challenge DWI evidence.
I am Edward Palermo, a DWI defense lawyer with over 31 years of experience defending clients throughout Suffolk County. I have successfully handled thousands of DWI cases and know how to protect your driving privileges.
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
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 client in Northport Village Court charged with aggravated DWI on a chemical reading in excess of .20, well above the .18 aggravated threshold and the kind of number that gives most people little hope. Drawing on my familiarity with that court and the Suffolk prosecutors who cover it, I was able to negotiate a reduction all the way down to driving while ability impaired, the non-criminal traffic infraction.
A reading in excess of .20 is well above the .18 aggravated threshold and the kind of number that gives most people little hope. Drawing on my familiarity with the Northport Village Court and the Suffolk prosecutors who cover it, I was able to negotiate the charge down from the most serious misdemeanor DWI level to driving while ability impaired, the non-criminal traffic infraction. My client walked out with no criminal conviction.
When the reading is over .20 and the DA’s office has little reason to bend, the specific court and the lawyer’s standing in it matter. Text my cell directly 24/7 to put 31+ years of criminal defense experience in your corner.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Legal disclaimer
I represented a client in Northport Village Court charged with aggravated DWI on a chemical reading in excess of .20, well above the .18 aggravated threshold and the kind of number that gives most people little hope. Drawing on my familiarity with that court and the Suffolk prosecutors who cover it, I was able to negotiate a reduction all the way down to driving while ability impaired, the non-criminal traffic infraction.
I represented a client in Riverhead Town Justice Court charged with driving while intoxicated under VTL 1192(2), on a chemical reading of .17. That is a number most people assume leaves no room to work with. It sits just under the .18 aggravated threshold, and the Suffolk County District Attorney's office rarely agrees to reduce a charge at that level. Getting a reduction on a reading like that in this particular courthouse is harder still, because in Riverhead the deal does not end with the prosecutor.
I represented a practicing attorney in Suffolk County facing felony Aggravated DWI and Leandra's Law charges after being stopped with a child passenger in the vehicle. Her blood alcohol reading was elevated, and the state was aggressively pursuing a felony conviction that could have triggered disbarment, the loss of her law license, and possible state prison time.
I represented a New Jersey businessman charged with DWI in Suffolk County. He faced criminal exposure in New York and licensing consequences at home in New Jersey. I negotiated a reduction of the criminal charges to a non-criminal traffic violation, fully protecting his record in both states.
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.
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.
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
“Could have not asked for a better full hands on…”
Could have not asked for a better full hands on attorney!! Ed went above and beyond to get the results we truly desired. Very experienced/knowledgable as I truly recommend him for Long Island.
“I cannot say enough wonderful things about Ed Palermo. From…”
I cannot say enough wonderful things about Ed Palermo. From the very beginning, he was there for me during what was undoubtedly the worst and most difficult time of my life. I was scared, overwhelmed, and at times completely falling apart, but Ed always knew how to calm me down and make me feel comfortable. Even during my worst meltdowns, he reassured me that everything was going to be okay. He never made me feel judged, and I always felt that I was in good hands. His knowledge, confidence, compassion, and professionalism meant more to me than he will ever know. The outcome of my case was even better than I ever expected, and I truly believe I could not have gotten through this experience without him. I will forever be grateful for everything he did for me. I highly recommend Ed Palermo to anyone who needs an attorney who not only knows what he’s doing but genuinely cares about his clients. Thank you, Ed, for helping me get through the darkest chapter of my life. Danielle guarino
“Ed Palermo is an excellent and very professional attorney. He…”
Ed Palermo is an excellent and very professional attorney. He works to achieve the best possible outcome for the client. He is always very personable and easy to talk to.
“Attorney Rafael Zapata is outstanding. With over 25 years of…”
Attorney Rafael Zapata is outstanding. With over 25 years of criminal defense experience and the ability to serve clients in both English and Spanish, he makes the process smooth and clear for everyone. His professionalism and dedication truly set him apart. Highly recommend this firm for anyone needing trusted legal representation.
“I highly recommend Ed Palermo as a top-notch criminal defense…”
I highly recommend Ed Palermo as a top-notch criminal defense lawyer. He represented a family member of mine with incredible skill, dedication, and professionalism. From the very beginning, Ed Palermo took the time to explain every step of the legal process, answered all our questions, and provided unwavering support. He fought tirelessly to ensure the best possible outcome, and thanks to his hard work and expertise, our family member’s case was resolved successfully. Ed Palermo is not only highly knowledgeable but also genuinely cares about his clients, treating them with respect and compassion. If you need a strong, reliable, and experienced defense attorney, I wholeheartedly recommend Ed Palermo.
“great lawyer, he has helped me out with a couple…”
great lawyer, he has helped me out with a couple cases now and every time it’s a win. great price for the amazing work that he does. i will always call him if needed.
A DWI arrest in Northport can jeopardize your career, reputation, and freedom. Edward Palermo has been defending Northport residents against DWI charges for over 31 years. Our firm understands the unique enforcement patterns in this North Shore community and knows how to effectively challenge DWI evidence to protect your rights and driving privileges.
The Northport Village Police Department and Suffolk County Police actively patrol Main Street, Route 25A, and the approaches to the village for impaired drivers. The village’s popular restaurants, bars, and harbor area make DWI enforcement a priority, particularly on weekends and during summer months when tourism increases.
DWI arrests in Northport often begin with traffic stops for minor violations – failure to signal, equipment violations, or failure to maintain lane. Once stopped, officers look for signs of impairment and may request field sobriety tests. Understanding how these stops occur helps us identify constitutional violations that can lead to evidence suppression.
Aggravated DWI cases (BAC .18% or higher) and felony DWI charges are transferred to Suffolk County Court in Riverhead. Our firm is experienced in all Suffolk County courts and can seamlessly handle your case regardless of where it’s prosecuted.
New York’s DWI laws are among the strictest in the nation. A first-time DWI conviction carries fines of $500-$1,000, license revocation for six months, mandatory ignition interlock device installation, and up to one year in jail. Second offenses within ten years become felonies with mandatory jail time and longer license revocations.
Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI) is a lesser charge with a BAC between .05% and .07%, carrying lighter penalties but still affecting your driving record. Aggravated DWI for BAC .18% or higher carries enhanced penalties including mandatory treatment programs and longer ignition interlock requirements.
The Fourth Amendment requires police to have reasonable suspicion of a traffic violation or criminal activity to stop your vehicle. We scrutinize the stated reasons for your stop, looking for pretextual stops or violations of proper police procedure. An illegal stop can result in suppression of all evidence obtained afterward.
Breath testing devices require strict calibration protocols and maintenance schedules. We examine the specific machine used in your case, its maintenance records, and the operator’s certification. Medical conditions like GERD, diabetes, or certain diets can also produce false high readings.
Standardized field sobriety tests (walk-and-turn, one-leg stand, horizontal gaze nystagmus) must be administered according to NHTSA protocols. Officers often administer these tests improperly or fail to account for medical conditions, age, weight, or environmental factors that affect performance.
Refusing a breathalyzer triggers an automatic one-year license revocation through the DMV, separate from criminal proceedings. However, we can challenge the refusal at an administrative hearing and argue that the refusal warning wasn’t properly given or that circumstances justified the refusal.
A DWI arrest triggers parallel proceedings: the criminal case and a DMV administrative hearing. You have only 15 days to request a hearing to contest the suspension of your driver’s license. Our firm handles both aspects of your case, fighting to preserve your ability to drive for work, family obligations, and daily life.
If you’re facing DWI charges in Northport, time is critical. Call our Hauppauge office at (631) 265-1052 immediately for a confidential consultation. We also represent clients in Amityville, Smithtown, Islip, Babylon, Bay Shore, Brentwood, and Commack.
Remain calm and polite, but exercise your right to remain silent. Provide your license and registration when requested, but don't answer questions about where you've been or whether you've been drinking. You may refuse field sobriety tests, though this may result in arrest. Contact an attorney immediately if arrested.
There's no easy answer. Refusing prevents the prosecution from obtaining BAC evidence but results in an automatic one-year license revocation. Taking the test provides evidence that can be challenged but avoids the refusal penalty. The best choice depends on your specific circumstances and tolerance for risk.
Your driving privileges depend on whether you took the chemical test and whether it's your first offense. First-time offenders who submitted to testing may be eligible for a conditional license after 30 days. Refusal cases result in automatic one-year revocation with limited hardship privileges available. We can help navigate the DMV process.
First DWI: $500-$1,000 fine, up to one year in jail, 6-month license revocation, mandatory ignition interlock device, and DWI program completion. Aggravated DWI (.18%+ BAC): $1,000-$2,500 fine, up to one year in jail, 1-year license revocation, and extended ignition interlock requirements.
Yes, DWI convictions remain on your criminal record permanently in New York and will appear on background checks. This can affect employment, professional licenses, and other opportunities. This is why fighting DWI charges aggressively from the start is so important.
Yes. We regularly secure reductions to DWAI (a violation, not a crime) or dismissals when there are problems with the stop, testing, or evidence. Each case is unique, and we'll evaluate your specific circumstances to develop the best defense strategy.
Most DWI cases take 3-6 months to resolve, though complex cases or those going to trial may take longer. Village courts like Northport may have limited session schedules. We work efficiently while ensuring we don't rush to an unfavorable resolution.
All DWI convictions in New York require installation of an ignition interlock device on any vehicle you own or operate for at least six months. You must blow into the device to start your car and provide periodic samples while driving. You pay for installation, maintenance, and monitoring costs.
Second DWI within 10 years is a felony carrying potential state prison time, fines up to $5,000, and license revocation for at least one year. Mandatory minimum jail time applies. The stakes increase significantly, making experienced legal representation essential.
With 31 years of DWI defense experience, we know how to challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your rights. We handle both the criminal case and DMV proceedings to minimize the impact on your life. Every case receives our full attention and aggressive advocacy.
