Born and raised in Raleigh, Mark went on to graduate cum laude from both Appalachian State University and North Carolina Central University School of Law. After law school, Mark spent 16 years serving as an assistant district attorney in Surry and Stokes Counties. During his time as a prosecutor Mark:
- Took well over 100 cases to jury trial
- Was primarily assigned felony cases in Superior Court including murder, rape, robbery, burglary, theft, embezzlement, gun crimes, and all levels of drug crimes including trafficking
- Regularly assisted in every other court including domestic violence, DWI, traffic violations, probation violations, juvenile delinquency, and firearms rights restorations
- Was the primary attorney handling Motions for Appropriate Relief and other post-conviction hearingsMark is an Eagle Scout and a regular volunteer with Scouting.