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
Experienced Smithtown DWI Defense Attorney
If you have been arrested for DWI in Smithtown, you need an experienced defense attorney who understands the complexities of New York drunk driving laws and the specific procedures of the First District Court in Central Islip. As a Suffolk County DWI lawyer with over 31 years of experience, I have successfully defended hundreds of clients facing DWI charges throughout the Smithtown area, from the Jericho Turnpike corridor to the residential neighborhoods near the Nissequogue River.
Smithtown’s unique location as a major suburban hub in Suffolk County means increased police presence along major routes like the Northern State Parkway, Jericho Turnpike, and the Long Island Expressway. Whether you were stopped near the Smithtown Bull, pulled over on Main Street, or arrested at a checkpoint on the Northern State, the consequences of a DWI conviction can be severe and long-lasting.
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
Since graduating from Hofstra Law School in 1994, I have handled more than 2,000 criminal cases, including hundreds of DWI matters. My approach combines aggressive legal defense with personalized client service. When you hire me, you get my personal cell phone number and 24/7 accessibility.
If you have been arrested for DWI in Smithtown, time is critical. You need to act quickly to protect your driving privileges and build a strong defense. Contact me today at (631) 265-1052 for a free consultation.
All DWI arrests occurring in Smithtown are prosecuted in the First District Court in Central Islip. This court is located at:
First District Court
400 Carleton Avenue
Central Islip, NY 11722
Phone: (631) 462-3900
The First District Court handles all misdemeanor DWI matters originating in Smithtown. Felony DWI cases are transferred to Suffolk County Court in Riverhead.
If you refused the breathalyzer during your Smithtown DWI arrest, the DMV refusal allegation can cost you your license for a minimum of one year. This is separate from your criminal case and requires immediate attention.
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 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 conducted a thorough procedural investigation into the facts of the case. Through direct negotiations with a senior supervising attorney in the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, I secured a reduction of the felony charges to a simple misdemeanor. My client walked out of the courtroom with a result that will be sealed after 36 months, her legal career fully protected, and her livelihood saved.
Leandra’s Law (New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1192(2-a)(b)) makes any DWI offense with a child under 16 in the vehicle an automatic felony. These cases require aggressive, specialized defense from day one.
Results 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
“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.
“Edward Palermo is confident, smart, and extremely knowledgeable. He knows…”
Edward Palermo is confident, smart, and extremely knowledgeable. He knows everything about the law. He knows how to effectively argue a case and is always available when you have a question. He is very passionate and genuinely cares about his clients and their future.
“Edward Palermo is an extremely gifted attorney. I know well…”
Edward Palermo is an extremely gifted attorney. I know well as he represented me and my family recently. Previously I worked for a number of lawyers over the years so can well differentiate between the not so good and the great. Ed is great. He's well versed in the law, and has extreme expertise in dealing with the Police, District Attorneys and most importantly Judges as well. He leaves his clients feeling confident and in good hands. Ed goes the extra mile for you and always gets back to you to answer any questions you have. He's a fantastic attorney!
Smithtown presents a unique environment for DWI enforcement due to its suburban character, major transportation corridors, and active law enforcement presence. Located in the heart of Suffolk County, Smithtown serves as a crossroads for major routes including the Northern State Parkway, Jericho Turnpike, and the Long Island Expressway. This positioning creates specific DWI enforcement patterns that every defense attorney must understand.
The Suffolk County Police Department’s 4th Precinct maintains primary jurisdiction over Smithtown DWI enforcement. This precinct is known for aggressive patrol tactics, particularly along major corridors like Jericho Turnpike (Route 25), the Northern State Parkway, and the Long Island Expressway. During weekends, holidays, and special events, enforcement intensifies significantly.
Local enforcement patterns in Smithtown include:
Understanding these enforcement patterns is crucial for building an effective defense. Many DWI arrests in Smithtown result from checkpoint stops or responses to minor traffic violations.
Police must have reasonable suspicion to stop your vehicle or must operate checkpoints according to strict constitutional standards.
Standardized field sobriety tests must be administered according to specific protocols. Officers often deviate from these protocols.
Breath test machines require regular calibration and maintenance. We examine maintenance records and testing protocols.
Alcohol takes time to absorb into your bloodstream. If you were tested some time after driving, your BAC may have been below the legal limit while you were actually operating the vehicle.
This charge applies when an officer determines you are intoxicated based on observable signs such as slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, unsteady gait, or the odor of alcohol. No breath test is required for this charge.
This charge applies when your blood alcohol content (BAC) measures 0.08% or higher on a breathalyzer or blood test.
This more serious charge applies when your BAC measures 0.18% or higher. Aggravated DWI carries enhanced penalties including mandatory jail time on a first offense. Learn more about aggravated DWI defense.
This violation-level offense applies when your BAC measures between 0.05% and 0.07%, or when you show evidence of impairment regardless of BAC.
If you are arrested for DWI in Smithtown with a child under 16 in the vehicle, you face automatic felony charges under Leandra’s Law. Learn more about felony DWI defense.
If you refused to submit to a breath test in Smithtown, you face automatic license revocation at a separate DMV administrative hearing. Learn more about DMV refusal hearings.
While any New York attorney can represent you in a DWI case, choosing a lawyer with specific experience in Smithtown and Suffolk County offers significant advantages:
Call (631) 265-1052 now for a free consultation
Smithtown DWI cases are heard at the First District Court in Central Islip, located at 400 Carleton Avenue.
DWI is a criminal offense with a BAC of .08% or higher. DWAI is a traffic violation with a BAC between .05% and .07%, or evidence of impairment.
Your license will be suspended at arraignment. If convicted, you face 6-month revocation for first offense. Refusal can trigger 1-year revocation.
Yes, first-time offenders are typically eligible for a conditional license for work purposes after DMV hearing.
Refusal triggers separate DMV hearing and potential 1-year license revocation regardless of criminal case outcome.
Fees vary based on complexity. I offer free consultations and payment plans.
Yes, for reasons including illegal stops, constitutional violations, faulty breath tests, or prosecutorial errors.
Leandra's Law makes DWI with child under 16 an automatic felony with serious penalties.
Most DWI cases take 3-6 months from arrest to resolution.
Document everything, remain silent, and contact an attorney immediately.
