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
Southampton Criminal Defense Attorney
If you’ve been arrested in Southampton, you need someone who knows these courts. I’m Ed Palermo, and I’ve been defending criminal cases in Southampton for over 31 years. I know Judge Patrick Gunn. I know Judge Gary Weber. I know Judge Karen Sartain. I know the prosecutors at the Suffolk County DA’s East End Bureau. I own a home in East Hampton and maintain an office at 9 Willow Lane. The East End is my community, and I know how to win here.
Southampton Town Court is one of the busiest justice courts on all of Long Island—even during the off-season. When it’s in session, the calendar is packed with cases. Morning sessions, afternoon sessions, friendly court staff. I’ve built strong relationships with everyone in that courthouse over three decades of regular appearances. I also appear in Southampton Village Court at 151 Windmill Lane, though it’s smaller and handles mostly violations and lesser offenses.
- Best Lawyer on Long IslandSix-time BFCU winner
- Trailblazer Award Winner
- Over 2,000Clients Represented
- Available 24/7Call or text Now: (631) 903-3733
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
Why You Need a Local Southampton Criminal Defense Lawyer
Southampton Town Court is located at 32 Jackson Avenue in Hampton Bays. It’s busy. Really busy. The court handles criminal cases, traffic violations, code violations—everything that happens within the Town of Southampton. The judges rotate every two weeks, so you need a lawyer who knows all of them, not just one.
I’ve appeared before Judge Gunn, Judge Weber, and Judge Sartain hundreds of times. I know their judicial temperament. I know how they handle first-time offenders. I know what arguments resonate and what doesn’t. That familiarity matters when you’re standing in front of the bench with your freedom on the line.
The criminal cases are prosecuted by assistant district attorneys from the Suffolk County DA’s East End Bureau. I’ve known these prosecutors for decades. We’ve negotiated countless plea agreements. We’ve tried cases against each other. I know the supervising DA who manages that office. We have professional relationships built on mutual respect and years of courtroom work together.
Southampton Village Court, located at 151 Windmill Lane, is smaller but handles violations and some misdemeanors within the village boundaries. I appear there as well when cases require it.
This isn’t a courthouse where you want an out-of-town lawyer showing up unfamiliar with the local procedures. Southampton has its own rhythm, its own culture. The court staff—mostly town police officers—are professional and friendly. They know me. They’ve seen me handle cases here for 31 years. That recognition matters.
Since becoming a homeowner in East Hampton and opening our office at 9 Willow Lane, the East End has become a bigger part of my practice. I’m here regularly. This is my community, not just a place I visit for court appearances.
Get Defense Now
Facing Criminal Charges in Southampton?
Call or text Ed immediately to get the legal defense you need.
Text Ed Now Call Our Office
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
Common Criminal Charges in Southampton
Southampton Town Court handles a wide variety of criminal cases. Some stay at the town court level. Others—if maintained as felonies—start with arraignment in Southampton before being transferred to Suffolk County Court in Riverhead. I’ve handled every type of criminal case you can imagine in this courthouse.
Assault and Domestic Violence: Crowded summer scenes, alcohol, relationship disputes—assault charges are common in Southampton. Simple assault. Aggravated assault. Harassment. Criminal contempt for violating orders of protection. These cases require careful handling because prosecutors take them seriously, especially in domestic violence contexts.
Burglary: Breaking and entering, residential burglaries, commercial burglaries. These are serious felony charges that require immediate, aggressive representation. I’ve defended clients charged with burglary throughout the East End for over 31 years.
Sex Offenses: These cases carry devastating consequences—prison time, lifetime sex offender registration, strict probation conditions. I know how to challenge the evidence, cross-examine complainants, and defend against these serious accusations. Every detail matters in sex offense cases.
Petit Larceny and Shoplifting: Theft from stores, boutiques, shops. What starts as a minor theft charge can create a permanent criminal record if you don’t have experienced counsel. Many first-time offenders don’t realize a guilty plea follows them for life.
Trespass: Private beaches, estates, restricted areas. Trespass charges are more common than people think in Southampton, especially during summer when visitors don’t always understand local property laws.
Drug Possession: Possession of marijuana, cocaine, prescription pills without authorization. Drug charges range from violations to felonies depending on the substance and quantity. I know how to challenge illegal searches and seizures.
Criminal Mischief: Property damage, graffiti, vandalism. These charges can be misdemeanors or felonies depending on the value of the damage.
- Best Lawyer on Long IslandSix-time BFCU winner
- Trailblazer Award Winner
- Over 2,000Clients Represented
- Available 24/7Call or text Now: (631) 903-3733
How I Defend Southampton Criminal Cases
Every case is different, but my approach remains the same: investigate thoroughly, challenge weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Investigation: I review every piece of evidence. Police reports. Arrest videos. Witness statements. Discovery materials. I’m looking for mistakes, constitutional violations, and weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. In sex offense cases, I examine every detail of the allegations. In burglary cases, I challenge identification evidence. In assault cases, I look for self-defense claims and credibility issues with witnesses.
Motion Practice: If the police violated your rights during the arrest or search, I file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges entirely. I’ve won cases this way before trial even starts. Illegal searches. Coerced statements. Speedy trial violations. If the prosecution made a mistake, I find it and exploit it.
Negotiation: I leverage my decades of experience with East End prosecutors to negotiate favorable outcomes. Reduced charges. Alternative sentencing. ACDs (Adjournments in Contemplation of Dismissal) that result in no criminal record if you stay out of trouble. Conditional discharges. I know what’s possible in Southampton Town Court, and I know how to get it.
Trial: If we can’t reach a fair agreement, I take cases to trial. I’ve secured NOT GUILTY verdicts in assault cases, robbery cases, sex offense cases, and other criminal matters throughout the East End. I know how to cross-examine police officers. I know how to present a defense. I’m not afraid to fight.
Why East End Experience Matters: Southampton isn’t just another courthouse to me. I own a home in East Hampton. I maintain an office at 9 Willow Lane. I appear in Southampton regularly. I know Judge Gunn, Judge Weber, Judge Sartain. I know the prosecutors at the East End Bureau and the supervising DA who manages that office. I understand the seasonal dynamics—how summer brings an explosion of cases and how the court handles the volume. That local knowledge gives my clients an edge.
If you’ve been arrested in Southampton, don’t wait. The sooner you hire an attorney, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome.
Get Defense Now
Arrested in Southampton?
Call or text Ed immediately to get the legal defense you need.
Text Ed Now Call Our Office
Call my cell anytime: (631) 903-3733. You can text me anytime. I respond quickly, especially in urgent situations like post-arrest bail issues or upcoming court dates. Your first consultation is free and confidential.
I maintain an office in East Hampton at 9 Willow Lane, making it convenient to meet in person. Whether you’re a year-round resident, a seasonal visitor, or facing charges far from home, I’m here to help. Let me put my 31 years of Southampton courtroom experience to work for you.
How I Defend Southampton Criminal Cases
Every case is different, but my approach remains the same: investigate thoroughly, challenge weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Investigation: I review every piece of evidence. Police reports. Arrest videos. Witness statements. Discovery materials. I’m looking for mistakes, constitutional violations, and weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. In sex offense cases, I examine every detail of the allegations. In burglary cases, I challenge identification evidence. In assault cases, I look for self-defense claims and credibility issues with witnesses.
Motion Practice: If the police violated your rights during the arrest or search, I file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges entirely. I’ve won cases this way before trial even starts. Illegal searches. Coerced statements. Speedy trial violations. If the prosecution made a mistake, I find it and exploit it.
Negotiation: I leverage my decades of experience with East End prosecutors to negotiate favorable outcomes. Reduced charges. Alternative sentencing. ACDs (Adjournments in Contemplation of Dismissal) that result in no criminal record if you stay out of trouble. Conditional discharges. I know what’s possible in Southampton Town Court, and I know how to get it.
Trial: If we can’t reach a fair agreement, I take cases to trial. I’ve secured NOT GUILTY verdicts in assault cases, robbery cases, sex offense cases, and other criminal matters throughout the East End. I know how to cross-examine police officers. I know how to present a defense. I’m not afraid to fight.
Why East End Experience Matters
Southampton isn’t just another courthouse to me. I own a home in East Hampton. I maintain an office at 9 Willow Lane. I appear in Southampton regularly. I know Judge Gunn, Judge Weber, Judge Sartain. I know the prosecutors at the East End Bureau and the supervising DA who manages that office.
I’ve defended criminal cases throughout Suffolk County, Nassau County, and the East End for over 31 years. That experience across multiple jurisdictions gives me perspective. I know how Southampton prosecutes cases differently than other courts. I know which arguments work here and which don’t.
The seasonal dynamics matter too. Summer brings an explosion of cases—the population swells, the bars fill up, enforcement increases. The court handles the volume efficiently, but you need a lawyer who understands the rhythm. Off-season cases move differently. Court sessions aren’t daily, but when they happen, the judges and prosecutors are focused and thorough.
Southampton vs. Other East End Courts
Southampton Town Court is genuinely one of the busiest justice courts in New York State. That’s not marketing language—it’s reality. The volume of cases processed here exceeds most other town courts on Long Island. This means prosecutors are experienced, judges have seen everything, and the system moves efficiently.
That efficiency can work against you if you don’t have experienced representation. Cases move fast. Plea offers come and go. Court dates arrive quickly. You need a lawyer who can keep pace with the system while still thoroughly investigating your case and fighting for the best outcome.
Southampton Village Court at 151 Windmill Lane operates differently—smaller, less frequent sessions, mostly violations and code violations. But I appear there as well when cases require it.
Get Defense Now
Arrested in Southampton?
Call or text Ed immediately to get the legal defense you need.
Text Ed Now Call Our Office
What Happens After You’re Arrested in Southampton
If you’re arrested in Southampton, you’ll be arraigned quickly—usually within 24 hours. The arraignment happens in Southampton Town Court regardless of whether the charge is a misdemeanor or felony. The judge will read the charges, you’ll enter a plea (almost always not guilty at this stage), and the judge will set bail or release you on your own recognizance.
For misdemeanor cases, the entire case stays in Southampton Town Court from arraignment through trial or plea agreement. For felony cases, the arraignment and preliminary proceedings happen in Southampton, but if the felony is maintained after preliminary hearings, the case gets transferred to Suffolk County Court in Riverhead for further proceedings.
Having an attorney at arraignment is critical. I can argue for lower bail or release without bail. I can start reviewing the prosecution’s evidence immediately. I can begin negotiations with the DA’s office right away. The earlier I get involved, the more options we have.
Call Me Now
If you’ve been arrested in Southampton, don’t wait. The sooner you hire an attorney, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome.
Call my cell anytime: (631) 903-3733. You can text me anytime. I respond quickly, especially in urgent situations like post-arrest bail issues or upcoming court dates. Your first consultation is free and confidential.
I maintain an office in East Hampton at 9 Willow Lane, making it convenient to meet in person. Whether you’re a year-round resident, a seasonal visitor, or facing charges far from home, I’m here to help. Let me put my 31 years of Southampton courtroom experience to work for you.
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
