John Victor Mastriani

PRO

John Victor Mastriani

4.7
Rating: 1.0

Licensed for 38 years

Bankruptcy and debt Lawyer at Houston, TX
Practice Areas: Bankruptcy & Debt, Debt Settlement, Litigation ... +4 more

One Greenway Plaza, Suite 100, Houston, TX

This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2021
See Details

Free Consultation

About John

Biography

Consumer Warrior and Debt Destroyer $$$ Call Today, Sleep Tonight. Free Consultation.

Practice Areas

7

Practice Areas

Bankruptcy and Debt 32%

Debt Defense for Downtrodden Consumers. Full litigation services and affordable payment plans. We fight for your rights and help you get your life back from greedy creditors.

27 years | 3,106 cases

32%
Debt Settlement 32%

27 years | 2,912 cases

32%
Litigation 32%

38 years | 4,756 cases

32%
Admiralty and Maritime 1%

31 years | 8 cases

1%
Class Action 1%

31 years | 7 cases

1%
Personal Injury 1%

38 years | 500 cases

1%
Wills and Living Wills 1%

26 years | 89 cases

1%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes

Contingency

25%-45%

Retainer

Always


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2024 2023 2020
...
+ 6

Licenses

Licensed in Texas for 38 years

State: Texas

Acquired: 1987

Eligible to Practice in Texas

Lawyer disciplined by state licensing authority in 2021

Location

The Mastriani Law Firm

One Greenway Plaza, Suite 100, Houston, TX, 77406

texasdebtdefense.com/

John Victor Mastriani's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.7 /5.0

169 Client Reviews

Showing 166 - 169 of 169 reviews

Posted by Ben | April 04, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

Very Poor Representation

Hired this firm back in January after they said they could help me. I paid $3,500 (of money that I could not afford) and after that it was like pulling teeth to get them to communicate. My initial consultation was with Chris Thornhill and never heard from him again. After 3 months and only filing one... court document they needed another $2,500 to continue my case. They string you along on the premise that you will win your case only to require more money to continue.

Posted by Thomas | February 24, 2014

Non-responsive. Bad Customer Service.

I hired this firm because I heard it was the best way to go. Initially the office was responsive with returning phone calls (before I paid). Once I paid the retainer, I did not receive any follow up via email or phone call. I sent several emails inquiring when the actual Attorney would make contact w...ith me (still to this date, I have not had a conversation with any Attorney about my case). I want to believe the work is being done on my behalf, but I am skeptical. When I call the Office, it is almost as if I am bothering the Staff person who answers the phone. I read previous posts and they all give the impression they received great service, I am still waiting for that experience.

John Mastriani

Replied last February 24, 2014

Thomas were are not certain who you are. I am also uncertain if this is a litigation matter or a general settlement. The firm's office policy is that only an attorney signs up a new client so you would have had to speak with either myself or an associate. I have reviewed my emails and so has the employees of the firm and it does not appear that anyone is trying to get a hold of us or upset with respect to follow ups. The firm also has a strict policy that any time a client desires a status conference, within reason of course, that we schedule one either via the telephone or in person depending on the client's pleasure. Additionally, there is no charge for the status conference. There are only two attorneys in the office and the cases are usually worked up together and then tried by myself. Every time a new document comes in or additional work is required on the file we schedule an appointment with the client to review the matter if it is litigation. Likewise if the client has expressed an interest in a general file to settle we do the same. I would suggest that you call the office and schedule a free status conference to review any of your concerns. We want to provide a great service and understand how at times certain situations may be projected upon us. Additionally, I want to be advised of the issues with the staff and the particular staff member you contend has in your words "was bothered" with your calls. The staff is there to assist you and anyone that would give you that impression will be admonished. Again, our goal is to work together as a team and too smoothly and efficiently, resolve your matter in a cost effective manner. Please contact the office via phone 713 665 1777 such that we may schedule the status conference directly with me to resolve all of your concerns. Additionally, my cell telephone number is available and just ask the staff for it and you may call me 24/7 on it. I look forward to hearing from you and resolving your issues immediately. Thank you, John Victor Mastriani I thank you in advance for

Posted by anonymous | January 13, 2014 | Debt Settlement

Terrible customer service, takes your money and never calls you back

I hired Mastriani over two years ago to help me with a judgement, in these two years he has taken more than 25% of the judgement in fees and has never delivered on his promises or even bother to call me back. I have to call them over and over just to speak with someone. They tell you they are very ...busy, so am I. Such arrogance and disrespect for peoples time and money. I wish I never dealt with them and just paid the debt.

John Mastriani

Replied last January 13, 2014

Whomever made this comment I would appreciate a call to the law firm. We meet with clients regularly and at no time do we never schedule a meeting should they desire. A client's file is always made available for review should the client not desire to meet with a lawyer. We usually do not charge for client meetings. My records do not reflect anyone that has tried to call us over and over that has not been responded to. We are busy but never to busy for our client's as they are the lifeblood of our practice. I encourage you to call us and schedule an appointment, it may either be in person or via teleconference, at no charge to you such that we may review your concerns.

Posted by anonymous | August 04, 2011 | Lawsuits & Disputes

Unprofessional and Unresponsive

Do not use this attorney. He is totally unprofessional and does not make any real effort to resolve your issue. He only does what is minimally required and is extremely slow in responding to any of your requests or service needs. Whenever you actually do get to speak with him (after sitting on hol...ding for 10 - 15 minutes), he constantly rushes you off the phone and does not fully pay attention to your comments or questions. He even failed to properly review a proposed settlement offer before sending it to me for my acceptance. Had I not taken the time to thoroughly review the proposed settlement and point out errors (which this attorney has the responsibility to identify, since he is supposedly the legal professional), I would have potentially agreed to detrimental settlement terms. You will also have to constantly contact the office in order to attempt to find out anything regarding the status of your situation. I was rarely provided any updates regarding the status of my situation, unless I called in begged for an update. Even when you request an update, it as if your situation is of minimal concern to them or they really are not on top of what is going on with the situation. You are always given a bunch of unnecessary rhetoric and you can tell that the office really done minimal work because of the uncertainty of where things stand. Finally, the type of communication this attorney supplies is quite poor. You don't receive hard copies of correspondence which was supposedly sent on your behalf and when you request a fax or e-mail of the documents, they are always of poor quality. Thus, you have to request that the documents be resent to you. In short, do not expect to receive any quality service from this attorney.

John Mastriani

Replied last August 09, 2011

We were paid less than three hours of attorney time. We responded to at least 30 emails from this individual. The case was settled favorably. At no time were documents ever going to be submitted to opposing counsel without a thorough review. This individual insisted on receiving everything and we supplied him documents as they came in. It is a shame everyone is not pleased. It is even more of a shame that without any ability to judge our knowledge or expertise this individual has given us such poor grades. The actual catalyst for this outburst was that the fact that the client continually called as well. Often times two or three times a day without realizing that the bank needed time to get back with us. It is also not in ones best interest from a strategic point of view to be over anxious. All of the documents were timely received and forwarded at least three weeks prior to when they were actually due. One can understand and we have empathy for the stress these people that fall behind on their bills are under. We wish this individual well with all his future endeavors.

See All Client Reviews

John Victor Mastriani's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse John
Lawrence Frederick Dietlein Jr. headshot
Lawrence Dietlein

Debt settlement lawyer | Oct 30

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse John Mastriani. John is a very competent and compassionate attorney who aggressively fights for his client's rights. I would recommend his services to my clients, friends and family members without hesitation."

Christian K. Lassen II headshot
Christian Lassen

Unknown lawyer | May 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."

Jerry J. Jarzombek headshot
Jerry Jarzombek

Lawsuits and disputes lawyer | Oct 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"John works hard for his clients. He skilled and proficient in the areas of debt defense and harassment by debt collectors. He knows the law, and knows how to make an intelligent argument to the Court. I recommend him without reservation."

Bonner Charles Walsh headshot
Bonner Walsh

Litigation lawyer | Oct 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"When faced with either debt defense or credit harassment matters, it is hard to think of many attorneys with the experience and the reputation that John has. I would not hesitate to recommend that anyone facing issues with an aggressive collector or being sued over an old debt seek his assistance. If you do you will not regret your decision."

Robert Francis Gilbert headshot
Robert Gilbert

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | Oct 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"John is an aggressive but honest advocate for consumers. You can count on him."

Patrick Edward Murphy headshot
Patrick Murphy

Debt settlement lawyer | Oct 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have worked with Mr. Mastriani for several years now and refer all my clients who are in need of debt settlement services. With his broad knowledge in litigation, he provides unsurpassed counsel and has set the bar in this field. I highly recommend him"

Jason Edmond Wells headshot
Jason Wells

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | Sep 13

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have known John Mastriani for many years. He is incredibly skilled and proficient in his field, as well as, holds a great reputation in the community. I have recommended John to several friends and family members for their debt issues. I am confident that any case which he handles will be completed with the utmost professionalism and skill. You should feel confident entrusting John with your matter."

Thomas Dean Malone headshot
Thomas Malone

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | Jun 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"John Mastriani is very familiar with defense of credit card and debt buyer lawsuits in the Houston area, and I have no hesitation recommending him."

Pamela L. Stewart headshot
Pamela Stewart

Debt settlement lawyer | Feb 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known John for several years and think very highly of his work. He is extremely successful with his cases."

Stewart Ransom Miller headshot
Stewart Miller

Debt collection lawyer | Feb 01

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I am a Consumer Rights Lawyer in North Texas and have worked with John Mastriana over the years. I send consumers to Mr. Mastriani if they live in an area beyond the range of my practice and I beleive they live within the area of his practice. Also, I send consumers to him when I believe his past experience with particular collection lawyers will benefit the consumer. John Masrtiana has never disappointed me. He is one of the best!"

Dana Karni-Ilouz headshot
Dana Karni-Ilouz

Debt and lending agreements lawyer | Jan 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"John and I have worked together in a number of cases, our most notable effort being a case of first impression in the Southen District of Texas. John is a very hard working attorney, well known and highly regarded among attorneys dealing with consumer debt issues."

Gary W. De Serio headshot
Gary De Serio

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | Oct 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known John Mastriani a long time, he handles hundreds of cases for consumers in distress and helps them resolve their debt issues. He is a champion for the consumer and I am proud to know him."

Christopher Mackensen Thornhill headshot
Christopher Thornhill

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | Sep 30

Relationship: Co-worker

"John is the best in the Houston area for resolving bankruptcy, debt or credit card issues. He protects the consumers."

View All Endorsements
Patrick Edward Murphy headshot
Patrick Murphy

Corporate and incorporation lawyer

Christopher Mackensen Thornhill headshot
Christopher Thornhill

Debt settlement lawyer

Experience

Rating:  1.0 (Extreme Caution)

Professional misconduct

This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2021.

Partially Probated Suspension issued in TX, 2021

updated on 02/22/2022

Partially Probated Suspension means an attorney lost his or her license to practice law for a period of time. When the attorney returns to practice, he or she will be on probation, meaning the State monitors the attorney's activities for a period of time in hopes that he or she will not repeat the behavior.

Partially Probated Suspension issued in TX, 2021

updated on 08/03/2021

Partially Probated Suspension means an attorney lost his or her license to practice law for a period of time. When the attorney returns to practice, he or she will be on probation, meaning the State monitors the attorney's activities for a period of time in hopes that he or she will not repeat the behavior.

Partially Probated Suspension issued in TX, 2021

updated on 10/29/2021

Partially Probated Suspension means an attorney lost his or her license to practice law for a period of time. When the attorney returns to practice, he or she will be on probation, meaning the State monitors the attorney's activities for a period of time in hopes that he or she will not repeat the behavior.

Partially Probated Suspension issued in TX, 2021

updated on 10/29/2021

Partially Probated Suspension means an attorney lost his or her license to practice law for a period of time. When the attorney returns to practice, he or she will be on probation, meaning the State monitors the attorney's activities for a period of time in hopes that he or she will not repeat the behavior.

Partially Probated Suspension issued in TX, 2021

updated on 10/29/2021

Partially Probated Suspension means an attorney lost his or her license to practice law for a period of time. When the attorney returns to practice, he or she will be on probation, meaning the State monitors the attorney's activities for a period of time in hopes that he or she will not repeat the behavior.

Public Reprimand issued in TX, 2004

updated on 11/04/2010

Public reprimand means an attorney did something wrong but may still practice law. The State gives the lawyer a public reprimand in hopes that he or she will not repeat the behavior. Details of the infraction are made part of the public record.

Honors

2017

Top One Percent, National Association of Distinguished Counsel

1985

Law Review, Cumberland School of Law

Work Experience

1990 - Present

Principal, Mastriani Law firm

1988 - 1990

Attorney, Diedrich, Hoelke and Rubin

Associations

2014 - Present

Who's Who

Who's Who Honors Edition

2014 - Present

Houston Bar Association

Member

2014 - Present

Houston Bar Association, Litigation Section

Member

2014 - Present

Houston Bar Association, Commercial and Consumer Law Section

Member

2014 - Present

Texas Trial Lawyers Association

Member

2008 - Present

National Association of Consumer Advocates

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

MASTRIANI REVERSES TRIAL JUDGE ON APPEAL

Successful Appeal for Client

MASTRIANI REVERSES DISTRICT JUDGE

Successful Appeal of a District Court Judgment

975081: Midland Funding, LL.C. v. Consumer, In the CCCL 1 of Harris County. Texas

Take Nothing Judgment in Favor of Consumer

The Misuse of Arbitration to Collect Consumer Debts

Enlightened U.S. House on Misuse of Arbitration to Collect Consumer debts

2007-CV-02382: Sam Gachiengu v. Fia Card Services, In the Southern District of Texas

Landmark decision for Consumer against Banks

NO. 09-06-283 CV: Bruce Clifton v. American Express, In the 9th Court of Appeals Texas

Overturned a Large Judgment on Appeal and Won at Trial

14-04-01131-CV Kelly K. Hay v. Citibank (South Dakota) N.A., In the 14th Court of Appeals Texas

Large Interest Rate Judgment Eradicated

See More Legal Cases

Education

1988

New York University School of Law

LL.M - Master of Laws

1987

Samford University, Cumberland School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1987

Samford University, Cumberland School of Law

Proctor of Admiralty

1983

University of Houston, main campus

BBA

Speaking Engagements

2013

Webinar for Mobile Websites

Webinar on Mobile Websites

2013

Fox News Morning Extra Avoid Holiday Credit Tricks

2013

Fox Morning News

1099C Debt Forgiveness

2012

Fox Morning News

Debt Reduction Strategy

2012

Fox Morning News

Improving Your Credit

2012

Fox Morning News

Your Money Questions

2012

Fox Morning News

How to Avoid Retailers Tricks

2012

Fox Morning News

Avoiding Holiday Debt

2012

Fox Morning News

Credit Card Default

2012

Fox Morning News

Credit Card Company Tricks

2012

Fox Morning News

Anatomy of Credit Card Lawsuit Revisited

2012

Fox Morning News

What type of calls creditors can make

2012

Fox Morning News

Tips to get a Favorable Debt Settlement

2012

Fox Morning News

How to Avoid Credit Card Debt

2012

Fox Morning News

How to Defend a Collection Matter

2012

Fox Morning Edition

What to Say to a Debt Collector

2011

Fox Morning News

Freedom from Debt

2011

Fox Morning News

How to be Debt Free

2011

Fox Morning News

How to Settle Debt

2011

Fox Morning News

Helpful Tips to reduce Credit Card and Bank Debt

2011

Fox Morning News

Dealing with Debt

2011

Fox Morning News

How to reduce Interest and eliminate principal

2010

Fox Morning News

Anatomy of a Credit Card Lawsuit

2010

Fox Morning News

How to Deal with Overwhelming Debt

Publications

1987

Cumberland Law Review Research Board

Languages

English

Spanish

Vietnamese

Activity

Avvo Rating

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    This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2021
    Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution