Home / Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I’ve been arrested in Houston?

If you’ve been arrested, the most important thing you can do is remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Anything you say can be used against you. Contact Mark Lipkin Attorney at Law as soon as possible so we can begin protecting your rights, reviewing the arrest, and identifying any violations of proper police procedure.

How soon should I hire a criminal defense attorney?

You should hire a criminal defense attorney as early as possible, ideally before speaking to law enforcement or prosecutors. Early intervention allows your attorney to preserve evidence, challenge illegal searches or arrests, and often resolve cases before formal charges escalate.

What types of criminal cases do you handle?

I handle a wide range of criminal defense cases, including:
Drug possession and drug-related offenses
Juvenile crimes
White collar crimes
Family violence charges
Misdemeanors and felonies
Cases involving illegal search and seizure (Fourth Amendment violations)
My experience as a former Harris County sheriff’s deputy gives me unique insight into how cases are investigated and prosecuted.

Do you handle juvenile criminal defense cases?

Yes. Juvenile defense is one of the most important areas of my practice. When a young person is charged with a crime, the goal should be rehabilitation and protecting their future, not punishment. I work aggressively to keep juvenile records clean whenever possible and to prevent young clients from facing adult consequences.

Can you get my charges dismissed?

Every case is different, but dismissals are always a primary goal. I thoroughly examine police reports, evidence, witness statements, and procedural errors. Illegal searches, lack of probable cause, and constitutional violations often lead to dismissals or significant charge reductions.
I have successfully had hundreds of cases dismissed over the course of my career.

What is an illegal search and seizure?

An illegal search and seizure occurs when law enforcement violates your Fourth Amendment rights by searching you, your vehicle, or your property without proper legal justification. Many drug possession cases hinge on these issues. If evidence was obtained unlawfully, it may be suppressed — which can result in the case being dismissed.

Do you handle white collar crime cases?

Yes. In addition to my law degree, I hold a bachelor’s degree in finance with a minor in accounting. This background makes me particularly effective in defending clients charged with white collar offenses, where understanding financial records and transactions is critical.

What happens if I was falsely accused of a crime?

False accusations happen more often than people realize. If you’ve been wrongly accused, I will conduct a thorough independent investigation, challenge inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case, and expose weaknesses in the evidence. My role is to ensure your side of the story is fully and fairly presented.

Will I have to go to jail if I’m charged with a crime?

Not necessarily. Many cases can be resolved through dismissals, reductions, probation, diversion programs, or alternative sentencing. The outcome depends on the facts of your case, your criminal history, and how aggressively the case is defended.

How involved will I be in my case?

Very involved. I believe clients should understand what is happening at every stage of their case. I take the time to explain the criminal justice process, your options, and potential outcomes so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

Why should I choose Mark Lipkin as my criminal defense attorney?

Former Harris County sheriff’s deputy
Chair of both the Juvenile Law and Criminal Law Sections of the Houston Bar Association
Decades of criminal defense experience
Strong record of dismissals and favorable outcomes
Personal, hands-on representation
I take pride in my reputation and in delivering results that truly make a difference in my clients’ lives.

How do I schedule a consultation?

If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, don’t wait. Contact my office today to schedule a confidential consultation. Early action can significantly impact the outcome of your case.