30+ Years Defending Shelter Island Cases
I have spent over 30 years defending clients at Shelter Island Town Court. I know the judges, prosecutors, and unique court procedures on Shelter Island.
2,000+ Criminal Cases Handled
From ferry terminal incidents to serious felony charges, I have successfully defended thousands of criminal cases for Shelter Island residents and visitors.
Direct Access to Your Attorney
When you hire me, you get my personal cell phone number: (631) 903-3733. I am available 24/7 because I know criminal charges do not happen on a schedule.
Shelter Island Court Expertise
Shelter Island is unique—only accessible by ferry, tight-knit community. I understand the local enforcement patterns and court procedures that affect your case.
Shelter Island Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you have been arrested on Shelter Island, you need a defense attorney who understands the unique dynamics of this tight-knit island community. I am Ed Palermo, and I have spent over 30 years defending clients in Shelter Island Town Justice Court.
Shelter Island is accessible only by ferry, creating a distinct environment where local relationships matter. The island has its own police department and justice court, handling everything from minor violations to serious criminal matters. Summer months bring increased enforcement as the population swells with visitors enjoying the island’s marinas, beaches, and restaurants.
Whether you are a year-round resident, a seasonal homeowner, or a visitor facing charges, I understand how cases are handled in Shelter Island court. My East Hampton office is just a short ferry ride away, and I am available 24/7.
If you are facing DWI charges on Shelter Island, visit my Shelter Island DWI Defense page to learn how I fight DWI cases in Shelter Island Town Justice Court.
First Degree Assault - Not Guilty on All Charges
Client charged with First Degree Assault and multiple felonies. Maximum exposure: 25 years in state prison. The District Attorney offered 15 years. I rejected the offer and took the case to trial in New York State Supreme Court. After a four-week trial with approximately 15 witnesses — including 3 expert witnesses — the jury needed only four hours to acquit my client of ALL charges. Case reported in Newsday. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Notable Verdicts & Results
First Degree Robbery - Acquittal At Trial
Client accused of gunpoint First Degree Robbery facing up to 25 years in state prison. Convinced a Suffolk County jury to acquit on all charges.
Second Degree Burglary - Not Guilty Verdict
Client charged with violent Second Degree Burglary faced three strikes rule and life imprisonment. Tried the case and convinced Suffolk County jury client was not guilty. Client immediately released after 8 months in jail awaiting trial.
Marijuana First Degree & Weapons Charges – Reduced to Misdemeanor, No Jail
Client charged with Criminal Possession of Marijuana First Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon Second Degree in Suffolk County Supreme Court. Faced decade+ in prison with $1 million bail. Got bail reduced to $400,000, marijuana charge dismissed, negotiated to misdemeanor with no jail and no probation. Cash seized at arrest returned to client.
Assault - Case Dismissed
Client arrested for assault after violent altercation. Secured release on low bail and the matter was ultimately dismissed. Case reported on News 12, WABC, and WCBS.
Meet Ed Palermo
Why Choose Edward Palermo for Your Defense?
Your Trusted Shelter Island Criminal Defense Lawyer
When you are facing criminal charges on Shelter Island, you need more than a lawyer — you need someone who will personally invest in your defense. I have been defending people across Long Island for over 30 years, and I bring that experience to every Shelter Island case I handle.
I do not run a volume practice where you get passed off to an associate. When you hire me, I personally handle your case from start to finish. You get my direct cell phone number — (631) 903-3733 — and I answer it. My East Hampton office at 9 Willow Lane is a short ferry ride from Shelter Island.
I appear regularly in Shelter Island Justice Court at 12 Center Street in Shelter Island Heights, as well as Suffolk County Court in Riverhead where felony cases are prosecuted. I know the judges, I know the Assistant District Attorneys, and I know which defense strategies produce results in these courts.
What to Expect When You Call
I offer a free initial consultation where I review your charges, explain the legal process in Shelter Island Justice Court, and give you an honest assessment of your case. No pressure, no obligation — just straight answers.
Let’s Fight This Together
Do not let a criminal charge define your future. Contact me today. Call my cell at (631) 903-3733 — I am ready to fight for you.
Criminal Charges & Defense on Shelter Island
Criminal Charges I Defend on Shelter Island
Assault & Violent Crimes: Altercations at bars, restaurants, and vacation rentals. I challenge witness credibility and self-defense claims.
Drug Possession & Drug Crimes: I challenge the legality of searches, chain of custody, and probable cause.
Petit Larceny & Grand Larceny: Theft charges involving retail theft, contractor disputes, or neighbor conflicts. I work to get charges reduced or dismissed.
Domestic Violence & Orders of Protection: I fight to protect your rights while navigating family court and criminal court proceedings.
Boating Under the Influence (BUI): BUI charges carry serious penalties similar to DWI. I defend BUI cases with technical rigor.
Trespass & Criminal Mischief: Beach access disputes, dock conflicts, and property damage incidents.
DWI & Traffic Offenses: Route 114 is the focus of DWI enforcement. See my Shelter Island DWI Lawyer page.
Charged with DWI on Shelter Island?
If you are facing DWI charges on Shelter Island, I can help. Visit my Shelter Island DWI Defense page to learn how I defend clients arrested for driving while intoxicated.