Why clients choose Ed
One attorney. Your case, start to finish.
30+ Years Fighting DWI Cases
I have defended hundreds of DWI cases in the Shelter Island area. I know the local enforcement patterns, the court procedures, and how to challenge breathalyzer results and field sobriety tests.
2,000+ DWI and Criminal Cases
From DWI arrests on Route 114, near the ferry terminals, to other criminal charges, I have successfully defended thousands of cases in Shelter Island and throughout Suffolk County.
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.
Local Shelter Island Court Knowledge
Shelter Island is unique—island community, ferry access only, tight-knit population. I understand the local enforcement patterns and court procedures that affect your case.
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
Shelter Island DWI Lawyer
When You Are Arrested for DWI on Shelter Island
Getting arrested for DWI on Shelter Island presents unique challenges. Whether you were stopped on Route 114, near the North or South Ferry terminals, or in the Heights, you need an experienced DWI attorney who understands the island’s distinct character.
I am Edward Palermo, and for over 31 years, I have defended DWI cases at Shelter Island Town Justice Court on Route 114. I know the prosecutors, the judges, and the strategies that work for DWI defense in this unique jurisdiction.
Shelter Island’s isolated nature means law enforcement knows the community well, and DWI enforcement is taken seriously—especially during summer weekends when ferry traffic brings visitors. If you refused the breathalyzer, the DMV refusal allegation can cost you your license for a minimum of one year. It is critical to have experienced counsel in place to defend you at this hearing.
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
- Shelter Island Town Justice Court — Route 114, Shelter Island
- Suffolk County Court — Riverhead (felony trials)
Recognized by the community
7-Time Best Lawyer on Long Island
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.
Real Estate Professional, Prior DWI. Case Dismissed on Shelter Island.
A successful real estate professional from Brooklyn owned a second home on Shelter Island. One night, driving on the island, he was arrested for DWI, and the case landed in Shelter Island Town Justice Court. He came to me terrified about one thing above all: his professional license and the career he had spent years building. A conviction could have ended it.
The situation was difficult. He had a prior DWI arrest on his record, so the District Attorney refused to reduce the charge to a non-criminal violation. Most attorneys would have told him to take the best plea he could get and hope for the best.
I do not work that way. I went through the prosecution’s handling of the case line by line, and I found a flaw serious enough to challenge the entire prosecution. I filed a motion to dismiss. The motion was granted in its entirety, and the case was completely dismissed. No conviction. No mark on his record. His license and his future stayed intact.
When your career depends on the outcome, you do not want a lawyer who negotiates from weakness. You want one who knows this island’s court, reads every page, and finds the flaw the prosecution missed.
Notable Verdicts & Results
DWI
DISMISSED
Client charged with DWI after ferry terminal area stop. Successfully challenged the validity of the stop. Case dismissed.
DWI
REDUCED TO VIOLATION
First-time DWI arrest on Shelter Island. Negotiated reduction to non-criminal traffic violation. Client avoided criminal record.
Aggravated DWI
REDUCED
High BAC reading challenged through expert testimony. Charge reduced to standard DWI with minimum penalties.
DWI Refusal
LICENSE SAVED
Client refused breathalyzer. Won DMV refusal hearing. License preserved, able to continue commuting to work.
Drug-Related DWI
DISMISSED
Prescription medication DWI charge dismissed after challenging evidence and providing medical documentation.
Felony DWI
REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR
Third DWI arrest charged as felony. Mitigation and treatment documentation resulted in misdemeanor plea with probation.
DWI - Weekend Traffic Stop
NOT GUILTY
Acquitted at trial after challenging officer's testimony and field sobriety test administration.
Forcible Touching
NOT GUILTY
Charges dismissed after trial! Edward represented a young professional facing serious allegation. Rejected plea, took to trial, verdict of not guilty. Career restored.
About Attorney Edward Palermo
Call Me Personally: (631) 903-3733 | Available 24/7
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: Shelter Island Town Justice Court, 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 on Shelter Island and throughout the East End. I understand the unique challenges of defending cases in this island community—from ferry schedules to local court procedures. When you hire me, you get my personal commitment to your case and aggressive representation to protect your rights and your future.
Client Reviews
Testimonials
“Ed is a great lawyer!”
Ed is a great lawyer! Very intelligent and with his 30+ years experience really gives him upper hand on trials and other criminal cases. Highly recommend him.
“...Thanks to his services, I am living a much better life...”
Edward was nothing but a true professional when helping me with my situation. Thanks to his services, I am living a much better life. Thank you.
“...I can finally move on with my life and serve my country”
I recently joined the military but made a mistake before I enlisted that could have seriously affected my life which I was charged for. Mr Palermo got my case dismissed. I’m so glad I can finally move on with my life and serve my country
“...when I tell you he got my case dismissed i mean DISMISSED...”
I had a DWI case in Nassau and when I tell you he got my case dismissed i mean DISMISSED and DWI wasn’t the only charge
“If you’re facing a DWI...do yourself a favor and call Ed”
Ed Palermo is an incredible attorney! Even after my DWI case was resolved very favorably, I still had the interlock device in my car. Ed took care of that as well writing a motion for early termination after 6 months maintaining the device. If you’re facing a DWI case please do yourself a favor and call Ed Palermo. Best decision I could have made!
Online Ratings
Shelter Island DWI Defense
Understanding DWI Charges on Shelter Island
Shelter Island presents unique challenges for DWI defense. As an island community accessible only by ferry, the town sees seasonal population changes and weekend visitor traffic. Law enforcement maintains regular patrols along Route 114 and near the ferry terminals, with increased vigilance during summer months.
The Critical DMV Refusal Hearing
If you refused the breathalyzer test, you face a separate DMV refusal proceeding that is distinct from your criminal case. The DMV refusal allegation can result in license suspension for a minimum of one year – separate from any penalties in criminal court. This hearing requires skilled defense counsel who understands the technical defenses available. For second or subsequent refusal offenses, the suspension can be significantly longer.
DWI Defense Strategies That Work
Every DWI case has potential defenses. I analyze every aspect of your stop, arrest, and chemical testing to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Common defenses include challenging the validity of the traffic stop, questioning field sobriety test administration, attacking breathalyzer calibration and maintenance records, and examining blood test procedures and chain of custody.
Hear From Ed
I treasure my clients and will do everything in my power to get you a great result.
Criminal Defense on Shelter Island
If you are facing criminal charges on Shelter Island unrelated to DWI, I provide comprehensive defense for all matters.
Facing Criminal Charges?
I defend all criminal matters on Shelter Island with dedication and aggressive advocacy.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are the DWI laws in Long Island, and how do they apply to my case?
Long Island follows New York State laws, which set specific blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits and outline the proper procedures for field sobriety and chemical testing. An experienced attorney will review your case details to ensure all legal protocols were followed and challenge any evidence that was improperly obtained.
What are the potential penalties for a DWI conviction in Long Island?
Penalties can range from fines, license suspension, and mandatory alcohol education to probation or even jail time—especially if you have prior offenses. The exact consequences depend on your BAC, circumstances, and any aggravating factors, making personalized legal guidance critical. Learn more.
How can a Long Island DWI attorney help me fight my charges?
A dedicated attorney will scrutinize every step of your arrest, from the traffic stop to the administration of tests. They’ll identify any procedural errors or constitutional violations, negotiate with prosecutors, and develop a tailored defense strategy to reduce or dismiss the charges.
What happens to my driver’s license after a DWI arrest?
Your license may be suspended immediately after an arrest. However, a skilled attorney can work with the Department of Motor Vehicles and the courts to seek a restricted license or explore options to expedite its reinstatement.
How long does a DWI stay on my record in Long Island?
Typically, a DWI conviction remains on your driving record for up to 10 years. In some cases, there may be opportunities for expungement or record sealing depending on your circumstances and subsequent legal outcomes.
For more information on the length of a DWI record, continue reading here.
What happens after a DWI Arrest in Long Island, NY?
After a DWI arrest, expect license suspension, an arraignment date, and immediate penalties. Consulting an experienced DWI attorney quickly protects your rights and may mitigate consequences. Learn more.
What is the difference between DWI, DWAI, and aggravated DWI?
A standard DWI typically involves a BAC over the legal limit, while DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) applies to cases with a lower BAC. Aggravated DWI involves additional factors such as injuries or significant property damage, resulting in harsher penalties.
Read more about the difference between DWI, DWAI, and aggravated DWI.
How does a DWI affect my car insurance rates?
A DWI conviction is likely to result in significantly higher insurance premiums because insurers view you as a higher risk. An attorney may help mitigate the impact by securing reduced charges or exploring alternative sentencing that can lessen the long-term effects on your insurance.
How much does it cost to hire a DWI lawyer in Long Island?
Legal fees vary based on the complexity of your case and the attorney’s experience. Many firms offer free initial consultations and work with flexible payment plans to ensure that quality defense is accessible regardless of your financial situation.
Learn more about the different factors that contribute to the cost of a DWI lawyer in Long Island.
Why should I choose your law firm to represent me in my DWI case?
Our firm combines extensive local expertise with a proven track record in DWI defense. We offer personalized attention, aggressive advocacy, and a commitment to protecting your rights, ensuring every aspect of your case is meticulously handled for the best possible outcome.
Learn more about why you should hire Ed Palermo for your case.
What Should I Look for in a Criminal Defense Attorney In New York?
When choosing a criminal defense attorney in New York, look for deep knowledge of local laws and procedures, a proven track record of successful outcomes, strong relationships with prosecutors and judges, transparent billing, and a personalized approach with clear communication. Ed Palermo exemplifies these qualities, offering decades of experience, documented results, and a client-focused strategy tailored to protect your future.
Read more about things to consider when looking for a criminal defense attorney.
Should I Plead Guilty or Go to Trial?
When deciding whether to plead guilty or go to trial in New York, consider the strength of the prosecution’s evidence, potential plea benefits like reduced charges or sentencing, and the long-term impacts of a conviction on your life, such as professional or immigration consequences. Ed Palermo can guide you through this choice, leveraging 30 years of experience to assess evidence, negotiate favorable pleas, or fight for an acquittal, ensuring a strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
Learn more about when to plead guilty and when to go to trial.
Honors & Recognition
