Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer in Houston, Practicing Since 1997
For Over 25 Years, Lisa Shapiro Strauss has been a dedicated advocate for individuals facing criminal charges in Houston, Texas. As the founder of the law office of Lisa Shapiro Strauss, she provides compassionate yet aggressive defense representation for clients accused of felony and misdemeanor crimes throughout Houston and Harris County. She understands the serious and lasting consequences associated with these charges and is committed to protecting her clients’ rights and safeguarding their records at every stage of their cases.
What sets Lisa apart is her invaluable perspective gained from serving as a Former Prosecutor. This experience provides her with a unique understanding of how the criminal justice system operates from both sides. She knows how the State approaches various types of criminal cases and can leverage this knowledge to anticipate strategies, identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and build strong defense strategies tailored to your specific situation in a Houston courtroom.
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Legal Background and Extensive Experience
Lisa Shapiro Strauss began her legal career after graduating from Southern Methodist University School of Law in 1997. Prior to law school, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Arizona in 1994. She was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 1997, marking the beginning of her dedicated career in Texas criminal law.
Lisa’s foundation in the criminal justice system was built during her time as an Assistant District Attorney in Dallas County from 1997 to 1999. This period provided her with crucial insights into prosecutorial procedures and trial practices. In 1999, she transitioned to private practice, establishing her own firm focused exclusively on criminal defense. Since then, she has amassed Over 25 Years of Legal Experience, handling hundreds of both misdemeanor and felony cases throughout the Houston area and Harris County.
The Invaluable Insight of a Former Prosecutor
Serving as a Former Prosecutor is a distinction that provides Lisa Shapiro Strauss with a unique perspective invaluable to her criminal defense clients. During her time with the Harris County District Attorney’s Office, she gained firsthand knowledge of how the State investigates, charges, and prosecutes a wide array of criminal offenses.
This insider understanding means Lisa knows the types of evidence prosecutors prioritize, the legal strategies they commonly employ, and the factors that influence charging and plea bargaining decisions within the Harris County legal system. She understands the motivations and procedures on the “other side of the aisle,” which allows her to anticipate the prosecution’s approach, identify potential weaknesses in their case, and build a more strategic and effective defense for you in a Houston courtroom.
Her experience includes serving as the chief prosecutor in a domestic violence court, providing her with specific and in-depth knowledge of how these sensitive and complex cases are handled by the State in Harris County. This specialized insight is particularly beneficial for clients facing Assault Family Member or Impeding Breath charges.
Focused Expertise in Key Criminal Defense Areas
While Lisa Shapiro Strauss handles a broad spectrum of criminal defense cases in Houston and Harris County, she possesses significant expertise and experience in the following areas, which represent a core focus of her practice:
- Assault & Domestic Violence Defense
- Assault Impeding Breath & Circulation
- Expungement & Record Clearing
- Theft & Fraud Defense
- Evading Arrest & Detention
Her extensive experience in these specific areas, combined with her knowledge of the Harris County legal system, allows her to provide informed and effective defense strategies tailored to the nuances of these charges in Texas. She also has experience defending against Felony Offenses, Misdemeanor offenses, Probation Violations, and charges related to Robbery and Burglary.
Awards and Recognition
Lisa Shapiro Strauss’s dedication and skill in criminal defense have earned her recognition within the legal community. These awards reflect her commitment to her clients and her reputation for excellence in the field.
- Selected to the Texas Super Lawyers list published annually by Thomson Reuters in the area of Criminal Defense – 2021 – 2025
- Lead Counsel Verified in Criminal Law – State Felony & Misdemeanor
- AVVO – 10 Rating
- Houstonia Top Lawyers – 2015
- H Texas Top Lawyers – 2015
Professional Involvement and Local Ties
Lisa Shapiro Strauss is actively involved in the legal community, maintaining memberships and participating in associations that allow her to stay at the forefront of criminal defense law in Texas and connect with fellow legal professionals in the Houston area.
- Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, Board of Directors
- Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA), Member
- State Bar of Texas, Member
Her local involvement, particularly with the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA), reinforces her connection to the legal landscape in Houston and her commitment to the practice of criminal defense within this jurisdiction.
She has also shared her expertise through publications and speaking engagements:
- Publications: “How Do You Do It All?”, The Defender – Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association, Winter 2014
- Speaking Engagements: “Armed with the Best Tools: Efficient, Simple and Successful Uses of Technology in the Courtroom (…),” Unleashing Your Inner Beast Seminar in Galveston, April 20, 2018
Philosophy and Approach to Criminal Defense
Lisa Shapiro Strauss believes that everyone deserves a strong and dedicated defense. She understands that facing criminal charges is one of the most challenging experiences a person can go through, and her philosophy is centered on providing not just legal representation, but also support and clear communication.
Her approach is characterized by:
- Dedicated Advocacy: Fiercely protecting her clients’ rights at every stage of the process.
- Strategic Thinking: Leveraging her experience, including her prosecution background, to build effective defense strategies.
- Personalized Attention: Treating each case individually, understanding the client’s unique circumstances and goals.
- Clear Communication: Explaining complex legal concepts in understandable terms and keeping clients informed.
- Commitment to the Future: Working to minimize the impact of charges on clients’ lives and futures.
Lisa tailors her representation to your unique situation with the goal of minimizing consequences and safeguarding your future. She is fighting for you, every step of the way.
A Local Connection to the Houston Community
Lisa Shapiro Strauss is not just a lawyer practicing in Houston; she is part of the community. She is married with three children and lives in the Bellaire area, maintaining a personal connection to the city and its residents. This local tie reinforces her understanding of the community she serves.
Contact an Experienced Houston Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you or a loved one needs experienced, dedicated criminal defense representation in Houston or Harris County, we urge you to contact our law firm today. Lisa Shapiro Strauss is ready to provide the skilled legal guidance and defense you need.
Call (713) 449-9922 to arrange a confidential discussion about your case.
