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 treasure my clients and will do everything in my power to get you a great result.
- Ed Palermo
Southampton Criminal Defense Lawyer
When You Are Arrested in Southampton, You Need a Local Advocate Who Knows the Courts
I know how scary it is to see blue lights flashing in your rearview mirror on Route 27 near Gin Lane, or getting pulled over leaving a summer event on Jobs Lane in Southampton Village. Whether you were stopped near Meadow Lane, questioned outside a venue in the village, or arrested at a checkpoint on County Road 39, you need an attorney who knows Southampton—not just any Suffolk County lawyer.
I am Edward Palermo, and for over 31 years, I have defended clients at Southampton Town Justice Court on Hampton Road. I know the prosecutors, the judges, and the unique seasonal enforcement patterns that spike during summer months when the population swells.
Southampton encompasses diverse communities—Southampton Village, Shinnecock Hills, North Sea, Water Mill, and Hampton Bays—each with different enforcement priorities. During summer, when visitors head to Cooper’s Beach and Ponquogue Beach, law enforcement significantly increases patrols and checkpoints.
When you hire me, you get my personal cell:
(631) 903-3733
I answer personally, 24/7. No secretaries, no delays.
Local Courts I Serve
- Southampton Town Justice Court — 310 Hampton Road, Southampton
- Southampton Village Justice Court — 25 Jobs Lane, Southampton
- Suffolk County Court — Riverhead (felony trials)
I treasure my clients, and I will do everything in my power to get you a great result.
Related Services
Notable Case Results
With over 31 years of experience defending clients in Southampton and throughout Long Island, I have achieved numerous successful outcomes. From dismissals to acquittals to reduced charges, my track record speaks for itself. Every case is unique, and I bring the same dedication and aggressive defense to each client I represent.
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.
NOT GUILTY
Forcible Touching
Charges dismissed after trial! Edward represented a young MRI technician in Nassau County District Court facing a very serious allegation of forcible touching by patient. Edward rejected plea bargain offer from District Attorney as client maintained innocence and needed dismissal of charge. Edward took the case to trial and verdict of not guilty was returned. Clients career and life restored.
About Attorney Edward Palermo
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: Southampton area courts, 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 in Southampton and throughout the East End. I understand the local courts, the prosecutors, and how to get results for my clients. When you hire me, you get my personal commitment to your case. I will fight aggressively to protect your rights and your future.
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
When You Are Arrested in Southampton
You Need a Local Advocate Who Knows the Courts
I know how scary it is to see blue lights flashing in your rearview mirror on Route 27 near Gin Lane, or getting pulled over leaving a summer event on Jobs Lane in Southampton Village. Whether you were stopped near Meadow Lane, questioned outside a venue in the village nightlife corridor, or arrested at a checkpoint on County Road 39, you need an attorney who knows Southampton—not just any Suffolk County lawyer.
I am Edward Palermo, and for over 31 years, I have defended clients at Southampton Town Justice Court on Hampton Road and Southampton Village Justice Court on Windmill Lane. I know the prosecutors, the judges, and the unique seasonal enforcement patterns that intensify around Southampton’s beaches, restaurants, and social scene during summer months.
Southampton is different from the rest of Long Island. The enforcement here is aggressive—especially along the Gin Lane and Meadow Lane corridors where police monitor beach access and summer traffic.
When you call my personal cell at (631) 903-3733, you get me directly—24/7. I treasure my clients, and I will fight to protect your reputation, your freedom, and your future in Southampton.
Local Courts I Serve
- Southampton Town Justice Court — Hampton Road, Hampton Bays
- Southampton Village Justice Court — Windmill Lane, Southampton Village
- Suffolk County Court — Riverhead (felony trials)
Hear From Ed
I treasure my clients and will do everything in my power to get you a great result.
DWI & Traffic Defense in Southampton
If you are facing DWI charges, driving under the influence of drugs, vehicular assault, or other vehicle and traffic law violations in Southampton, I provide focused defense for these specific charges.
DWI cases require specialized knowledge of breathalyzer technology, field sobriety testing, and DMV procedures. I have successfully challenged hundreds of DWI arrests on Route 27, Dune Road, and throughout the Hamptons.
Facing DWI Charges?
I defend all vehicle and traffic related charges including:
- Driving While Intoxicated (DWI/DUI)
- Aggravated DWI & Leandra’s Law
- Driving Under Influence of Drugs
- Vehicular Assault & Vehicular Manslaughter
- Leaving Scene of an Accident
- Driving With Suspended License
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
