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Civil Rights Attorney Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Associate Attorney I - II

Lansing, MI ยท On-site

$104K - $128K/yr

Prosecutes and defends civil lawsuits, drafts and negotiates transactional legal documents ... to legal rights and issues. Reviews policies and other documents. Performs legal research on ...

Led by civil rights experts and Partners Jason Turkish, Jessica Turkish, Melissa Nyman, Spencer ... Communicate with attorneys and staff across firm locations in three states. * Assist attorneys ...

Legal Receptionist

Troy, MI ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Led by civil rights experts and Partners Jason Turkish, Jessica Turkish, Melissa Nyman, Spencer ... Communicate with attorneys and staff across firm locations in three states. * Assist attorneys ...

Be Seen First

Legal Receptionist

Troy, MI ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Communicate with attorneys and staff across firm locations in three states. * Assist attorneys ... Led by highly regarded civil rights specialist, Jason Turkish, Jessica Turkish, Melissa Nyman, and ...

Be Seen First

Hearing Case Manager

Troy, MI ยท On-site

$23/hr

Work 1:1 with an attorney to prepare case files for hearings * Process and file documents with ... Led by highly regarded civil rights specialist, Jason Turkish, Jessica Turkish, Melissa Nyman, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Civil Rights Attorney information

See Michigan salary details

$51.4K

$98.5K

$139.9K

How much do civil rights attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil rights attorney in Michigan is $98,481.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,600.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by Civil Rights Attorneys in their daily work?

Civil Rights Attorneys often encounter complex cases that require extensive legal research, detailed documentation, and persistent advocacy, sometimes over prolonged periods. They may face challenging circumstances such as representing clients with sensitive backgrounds or taking on cases against powerful institutions, which can be emotionally and professionally demanding. Collaboration with nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and other attorneys is important to build strong cases and support clients effectively. Staying current on evolving legal precedents and legislation is also essential to succeed in this dynamic field.

What can you do as a civil rights lawyer?

A civil rights attorney advocates for individuals whose rights have been violated, handling cases related to discrimination, harassment, and violations of constitutional rights. They investigate claims, provide legal advice, and represent clients in court or negotiations, often requiring knowledge of relevant laws and strong advocacy skills.

What does a Civil Rights Attorney do?

A Civil Rights Attorney advocates for individuals whose rights have been violated under laws protecting freedoms such as speech, equality, and due process. They handle cases involving discrimination, wrongful arrests, voting rights, and other constitutional issues. Their work includes legal research, filing lawsuits, negotiating settlements, and representing clients in court to ensure justice and uphold civil liberties.

Do lawyers make $500,000 a year?

Civil rights attorneys' salaries vary widely based on experience, location, and whether they work in private practice or for organizations. While some experienced attorneys in large firms or high-profile cases can earn over $500,000 annually, most civil rights lawyers earn less, typically between $60,000 and $150,000 per year.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Civil Rights Attorney position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Civil Rights Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and strong expertise in constitutional and civil rights law. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, as well as case management software, is commonly required. Outstanding advocacy, negotiation, and interpersonal skills are essential for connecting with clients and effectively presenting cases. These abilities are crucial for advancing clients' rights, navigating complex legal challenges, and achieving meaningful outcomes through litigation or negotiation.

How to make $500,000 as a lawyer?

A civil rights attorney can reach a $500,000 income by gaining extensive experience, building a strong reputation, and handling high-profile or complex cases. Specializing in niche areas, working at prestigious firms, or establishing a successful private practice can also increase earning potential. Developing strong negotiation skills and obtaining relevant certifications may further enhance income opportunities.

Where do civil rights lawyers make the most money?

Civil rights lawyers tend to earn higher salaries in large metropolitan areas with a high cost of living and significant legal markets, such as major cities with prominent law firms or government agencies. Experience, specialization, and working for large firms or government institutions can also increase earning potential for civil rights attorneys.
What are popular job titles related to Civil Rights Attorney jobs in Michigan? For Civil Rights Attorney jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Civil Rights Attorney jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Civil Rights Attorney jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Civil Rights Attorney jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Civil Rights Attorney job openings:
Infographic showing various Civil Rights Attorney job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,481 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

Associate Attorney I - II

BWL

Lansing, MI โ€ข On-site

$104K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 5 hours ago


Job description

Thank you for your interest in the BWL. We think you'll find it a rewarding and nurturing place to grow your career.

Starting Salary Range: $68,600.00 - $81,600.00Starting Salary:Associate Attorney I: $68,600 - $81,600

Associate Attorney II: $104,400 - $128,500

Position Summary:

This is an entry level position. Prosecutes and defends civil lawsuits, drafts and negotiates transactional legal documents, provides written and oral advice to employer and utility staff as to legal rights and issues. Reviews policies and other documents. Performs legal research on various subject matters.

Essential Functions:
  • Advises employer concerning the legality and liability associated with business transactions, claim liability, advisability of prosecuting or defending lawsuits, and other legal rights and obligations.

  • Conducts witness interviews and investigations.

  • Evaluates findings, recommends strategy, and prepares legal arguments.

  • Keeps updated on statutes, judicial decisions, regulations, and ordinances.

  • Conducts all work under the supervision of the General Counsel or Deputy General Counsel.

  • Interprets laws, rulings, and regulations.

  • Prepares, files, and argues legal motions and briefs.

  • Prepares and drafts legal documents, such as deeds, easements, leases, and contracts.

  • Prepares opinions on legal compliance.

  • Represents employer in court, quasi-judicial bodies, or before governmental agencies.

  • Drafts corporate policy documents.

  • Advises employer and internal clients.

  • Performs multiple tasks efficiently as to meet deadlines.

  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

  • Expected to comply with all BWL policies and work rules.

  • Reliable and predictable attendance.

Job Specifications:Required:
  • Bachelor's degree and Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school.

  • Must be member in good standing of the Michigan State Bar.

  • General knowledge of municipal law, utility law and administrative law.

  • Must possess and apply a broad knowledge of legal matters and the law to the completion of assignments.

  • Knowledge and ability to prepare and file motions, briefs, and memoranda, as well as appear incourt on behalf of employer.

  • Strong writing and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to multitask under tight time constraints.

  • Must be proficient in the use of Microsoft Word.

  • Fundamental Legal Writing Skills

  • Experience conducting legal and computer-assisted legal research.

  • Outstanding interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively at all organizational levels.

  • Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

  • Ability to exercise exceptional discretion and confidentiality.

  • Ability to enter and retrieve data from computerized, typed, and written sources.

  • Ability to interact with governmental agencies.

Preferred:

  • Prior experience practicing law.

  • Familiarity with laws, statutes, regulations, and ordinances governing public entities.

  • Prior experience in areas of law relevant to energy, government or business (e.g., administrative, employment, or environmental law).

Additional Responsibilities & Requirements:

Associate Attorney II: Starting Salary $104,400 - 128,500

In addition to this level: This is an intermediate level position requiring prior experience and the ability to perform duties and responsibilities of the position with a moderate level of supervision and oversight. Represents employer in court or before quasi-judicial tribunals or administrative agencies of government.

Essential Functions:

  • Coordinates, as needed, under supervision of the General Counsel or Deputy General Counsel.

Required:

  • This intermediate level position requires a minimum of four years of post-bar admission legal experience.
  • Experience in areas of law relevant to energy, government, or business, e.g. administrative, employment or environmental law.
  • Increasing ability to operate independently of supervision; demonstrated expertise in one or more areas of law (e.g. employment, contract, litigation); manage all the tasks within that area of expertise. Must possess and apply a broad knowledge of legal matters and the law to the completion of assignments.
  • Knowledge and ability to prepare and file motions, briefs, and memoranda, as well as appear in court on behalf of employer.
  • Strong writing and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to multitask under tight time constraints.
  • Experience conducting legal and computer- assisted legal research.
  • Additional requirements as listed on the full description.

Physical Requirements / Working Conditions:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Must be able to remain in a stationary position for the majority of the working day. The person in this position needs to move about inside the office environment. Constantly operates a computer and other office equipment. Ability to adjust focus, especially due to concentration on a computer screen. Must communicate frequently with other departments and employees both verbally and in writing. May need to lift and carry up to 30 pounds and/or position the body to reach items on the floor/ below the knee level or reach above head. On occasion, may need to use stairs.

Constantly works in a temperature-controlled office environment.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this position. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and skills that may be required of the employee. Management reserves the right to add, remove, or otherwise alter these duties, responsibilities, and skills at any time.

Why Should You Apply?

Competitive wages, employee development, and opportunity for professional growth.
Robust time off benefits including vacation, free choice, sick leave, parental leave and 11 paid holidays.
Comprehensive benefits package offered including medical, prescription, dental, life insurance, long-term disability, employee assistance program.
Voluntary benefits including vision, supplemental and dependent life insurance, flexible spending, AFLAC options, LifeLock anti-theft, long term care, tuition reimbursement, and BWL's Home Purchase Plan - Forgivable $5,000 loan for purchase of a home in Lansing.
Retirement programs including 401(a) Defined Contribution Plan (DC) (100% company paid up to 9.5 % of base salary for BU positions and up to 13% of base salary for NBU positions), 457 Deferred Compensation matches up to $2,500 per year.
Post retirement benefits offered at the respective level of coverage, co-pays and health care premium, at the same level as active employees.
Two fitness centers located on site open 24/7, work life balance program, employee assistance program, free parking and much more!
About BWL:
The Board of Water & Light serves Lansing, Michigan, and surrounding areas with electricity, water, and steam. Lansing's city charter vests the BWL with full and exclusive management of water, steam, and electric services for or the city. The American Public Power Association has honored the Lansing Board of Water & Light as one of the country's best publicly-owned utilities.
The Location:
Lansing lies at the heart of the Great Lakes State and offers all the beauty and splendor of the four seasons. A haven for swimming, boating, fishing, snowmobiling, golf, and hunting, mid-Michigan is also just a couple hours from premier skiing and one of the most beautiful freshwater lakeshores in the world on our Lake Michigan Coast. Lansing itself is only minutes and miles away from two of the nation's premier universities, Michigan State University and the University of Michigan, and boasts miles of walking, running, biking trails, Potter Park Zoo, professional sports, the arts, and fine dining.

THE BOARD OF WATER & LIGHT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER