30+ Years of Criminal Defense Experience
I have dedicated my career exclusively to criminal defense, including countless clients from Southampton and the Hamptons. I know what strategies work in East End courtrooms.
Represented over 2,000 Long Island Residents
I have represented more than 2,000 people facing criminal charges throughout Long Island, including hundreds from Southampton and the surrounding Hamptons communities.
Direct Access to Your Attorney
When you hire me, you get my personal cell phone number. I do not hide behind staff. When your freedom is on the line, you deserve an attorney who is accessible 24/7.
Local Court Knowledge
I appear regularly in Southampton Town Justice Court and Southampton Village Justice Court. I know the judges, I know the prosecutors, and I know how to get results on the East End.
I will answer all of your questions. I will explain the DWI charges you face. I will explain potential strategies to win your case. New clients ALWAYS feel better after they speak to me.
- Ed Palermo
Southampton Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you are facing criminal charges in Southampton, you need an experienced defense attorney who knows the local court system and the unique dynamics of this prestigious East End community. I am Ed Palermo, and I have spent over 30 years defending clients in Southampton Town Justice Court.
Southampton is synonymous with luxury and exclusivity, but it also sees its share of criminal enforcement. The Southampton Town Police Department is active throughout the town, with concentrated patrols in the village, along Route 27, and at beaches and events. Summer months bring increased arrests for DWI, drug possession, assault, and disorderly conduct as the population swells with seasonal residents and visitors.
Southampton Town Justice Court is one of the busiest courts on the East End, handling misdemeanors, violations, and preliminary felony matters. I appear here regularly and have built relationships with the court staff and prosecutors while successfully defending hundreds of cases.
If you are facing DWI charges in Southampton, visit my Southampton DWI Defense page to learn how I fight DWI cases in Southampton 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.
First Degree Rape - Acquittal At Trial
Represented two clients charged with First Degree Rape, each facing up to 25 years in state prison. Trial in Suffolk County Supreme Court. Both clients acquitted of all charges.
Federal Fraud & Bribery – Sentence Reduced From 20 Years to 6 Months
President of international shipping company faced 20 years in federal prison. Negotiated result where client served only 6 months in halfway house, nighttime only, allowing him to continue working at his company.
Leaving Scene of Fatal Accident– Probation Only
Medical doctor charged with leaving scene of accident with fatality. Faced up to 4 years in state prison. Convinced judge to sentence to probation without any jail time.
Meet Ed Palermo
Why Choose Edward Palermo for Your Defense?
Your Trusted Southampton Criminal Defense Lawyer
I am a Southampton criminal defense lawyer with more than 30 years of experience. I concentrate my practice on defending individuals facing criminal charges throughout Long Island’s East End. I have represented more than 2,000 Long Island and NYC residents over my career, including more than 1,000 DWI cases.
I am proud of my track record of success. Helping my clients is my only goal. If you or a loved one needs a criminal defense attorney in Southampton, please do not hesitate to call me today. I am always here to help. There is no substitute for experience when finding a Long Island criminal defense attorney. I am always happy to extend my family of clients. I will fight for you and make sure that you always feel protected and secure.
Testimonials
"...very hard working and did his best to get me a favorable outcome."0
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
Why Choose Ed Palermo as Your Southampton Criminal Defense Lawyer?
I am a Southampton criminal defense lawyer with more than 30 years of experience. I concentrate my practice on defending individuals facing criminal charges throughout Long Island’s East End. I have represented more than 2,000 Long Island and NYC residents over my career, including more than 1,000 DWI cases.
Charged with DWI in Southampton?
If you are facing DWI charges in Southampton, I can help. Visit my Southampton DWI Defense page to learn how I defend clients arrested for driving while intoxicated in the East End.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What criminal charges do you defend in Southampton?
I defend every type of criminal charge including DWI, drug possession and sale, assault, domestic violence, theft and grand larceny, burglary, robbery, weapons charges, sex offenses, harassment, disorderly conduct, criminal contempt and order of protection violations, reckless driving, and probation violations. Whether you are facing a violation, a misdemeanor, or a serious felony, I have over 30 years of experience building effective defense strategies for every level of charge.
Can criminal charges be reduced or dismissed in Southampton?
Yes. Depending on the facts, the evidence, and your prior record, charges can often be reduced or dismissed entirely. Options include adjournments in contemplation of dismissal (ACDs), reductions from misdemeanors to non-criminal violations, and outright dismissals based on suppression motions or evidentiary weaknesses. Early intervention by an experienced attorney gives you the best chance at a favorable outcome.
Will a Southampton arrest show up on my record?
An arrest creates a record, but the outcome of your case is what matters most. If charges are dismissed, you may be eligible for record sealing under CPL §160.50, which effectively removes the arrest from public view. Convictions for misdemeanors or felonies remain on your record unless eligible for sealing under CPL §160.59 after a waiting period. I fight aggressively to achieve outcomes that protect your record and your future.
I was arrested in Southampton but live out of state. What should I do?
This is very common, especially during the summer months. You need a local attorney who knows the Southampton court system. I can handle most court appearances on your behalf so you do not need to travel back to New York repeatedly. Contact me immediately so we can begin your defense and meet all court deadlines.
Do I need a lawyer for a first offense or minor charge?
Yes. Even charges that seem minor can have lasting consequences — affecting your criminal record, your employment, your professional licenses, and your immigration status. First-time offenders may qualify for favorable dispositions like ACDs, but only with proper legal representation. Do not assume a clean record will protect you without an experienced attorney advocating on your behalf.
Honors & Recognition
