Brett Van Benthysen, Civil Rights Attorney in New York

Brett concentrates on civil rights, consumer, litigation, and securities. Each area below outlines the kind of case Brett handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Civil Rights

  View other Civil Rights attorneys

• Consumer

  View other Consumer attorneys

• Litigation

  View other Litigation attorneys

• Securities

  View other Securities attorneys

Brett's primary office is at 885 3rd Ave Fl 20, New York, NY, 10022-4834. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new civil rights attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Brett usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Brett discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in civil rights practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Brett for a civil rights case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Brett walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Brett offer a free consultation?

  Brett charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Brett's office. Some civil rights attorneys offer free consults — check Brett's current terms during booking.

• How long do civil rights cases in New York typically take?

  Simple civil rights matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Brett gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Brett take my case if I'm outside New York?

  Brett is licensed in New York. Matters governed by New York law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Brett will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Brett?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Brett will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Brett accepting new civil rights clients right now?

  Brett's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.