About Melissa
Melissa J — Totaro is a partner at Houston & Totaro, Attorneys-at-Law, located in Fairfield, New Jersey. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in English from Rutgers University-Newark in 1988, graduating with High Honors. This academic achievement laid a strong foundation for her legal career. In 1993, she obtained her Juris Doctor from Rutgers School of Law-Newark, also graduating with Honors. Admitted to the New Jersey State Bar in the same year, Ms. Totaro has since dedicated her career to the field of consumer protection. From 1993 to 1994, Ms.
Totaro served as a law clerk to the Honorable Jose L — Fuentes, J.S.C., of the Superior Court of New Jersey. This experience provided her with invaluable insights into the judicial process, enhancing her legal acumen. Following her clerkship, she joined the Consumer Unit of the Passaic County Legal Aid Society as a staff attorney. During her time there, she developed her skills in advocating for consumer rights, gaining practical experience that would inform her future practice. In 1998, Ms. Totaro co-founded Houston & Totaro with Madeline L — Houston. The firm focuses on representing victims of fraud in both state and federal courts.
Ms. Totaro's practice encompasses many cases involving consumer fraud, unconscionable conduct, and unfair business practices. She has successfully represented clients against various entities, including automobile dealers, banks, mortgage servicers, landlords, and credit reporting agencies. Her expertise allows her to handle both individual and class action lawsuits, navigating them through trial and appellate levels with skill and determination. Houston & Totaro is committed to providing accessible legal services. The firm offers flexible communication methods, such as telephone conferences and email, to accommodate clients throughout New Jersey. Most cases are taken on a contingency basis, ensuring that consumers can pursue their claims without the burden of upfront legal fees.
This approach reflects the firm’s dedication to making legal representation available to those who might otherwise be unable to afford it. In addition to her legal practice, Ms. Totaro is an active member of the National Association of Consumer Advocates, which shows her commitment to consumer rights. She is also a member of the New Jersey State Bar, further demonstrating her engagement with the legal community. Houston & Totaro's office is conveniently located at 277 Fairfield Road, Suite 200, Fairfield, NJ 07004. For consultations, interested parties can reach the firm at (973) 228-6200.
