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Civil Rights Attorney Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Disability Rights New York

Staff Attorney

Rochester, NY · On-site

$62K - $115K/yr

Come join a civil rights leader committed to addressing these barriers and driving meaningful change in everything we do. Description The Staff Attorney will provide legal services and engage in ...

Disability Rights New York

Staff Attorney

Rochester, NY · On-site

$62K - $115K/yr

Come join a civil rights leader committed to addressing these barriers and driving meaningful change in everything we do. Description The Staff Attorney will provide legal services and engage in ...

Disability Rights New York

Advocate

Rochester, NY · On-site

$52K - $80K/yr

Come join a civil rights leader committed to addressing these barriers and driving meaningful change in everything we do. Description Under the supervision of an Attorney, the Advocate will provide ...

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Civil Rights Attorney information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$58.2K

$111.5K

$158.4K

How much do civil rights attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil rights attorney in Rochester, NY is $111,534.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,900.00 and $130,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a civil rights attorney?

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.

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 are popular job titles related to Civil Rights Attorney jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Civil Rights Attorney jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Civil Rights Attorney jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Civil Rights Attorney jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Civil Rights Attorney jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Civil Rights Attorney job openings:

Civil Rights Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Civil Rights Attorney job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,534 per year, or $53.6 per hour.

Volunteer Attorney

Rochester, NY • On-site

Disability Rights New York
Legal Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Disability Rights New Yorkexternal

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

EOE Statement
We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
About the Organization
DRNY, the Protection and Advocacy System and the Client Assistance Program for New York State, is seeking a passionate individual to achieve disability justice and protect civil rights. We dismantle the structural oppression of people with disabilities through individual advocacy, systemic litigation, public investigations, and collaboration with stakeholders. Come join a civil rights leader committed to addressing these barriers and driving meaningful change in everything we do.
Description
DRNY is pleased to welcome experienced Volunteer Attorneys to provide legal advocacy for people with disabilities. The Volunteer Attorney provides legal services and supports litigation to protect clients' civil rights.
Possible Functions
Volunteer Attorneys may engage in a wide range of advocacy activities such as:
  • Provide legal, administrative, and other appropriate means of support to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities;
  • Investigate allegations of abuse and neglect and draft investigative reports;
  • Monitor service providers for abuse, neglect, and compliance with federal and state laws and draft monitoring reports;
  • Analyze new and existing cases as well as other matters to determine if they present systemic issues; which may be appropriate for DRNY to address, and, with the Director or their designee, formulate strategies for their prevention, reduction, or elimination;
  • Consult with professionals such as attorneys, physicians, psychologists, therapists, educators, and others to identify options and barriers for individuals and groups;
  • Support DRNY projects, project teams, and initiatives that foster self-determination and self-advocacy, and coalition building;
  • Participate in committees, task forces, and other organization-wide groups;
  • Conduct and participate in training and outreach activities;
  • Maintain accurate, confidential files;
  • Maintain accurate time records and client records, including accurate use of the client tracking database for DRNY to meet its programmatic and fiscal responsibilities, and to obtain prevailing party attorney fees when appropriate;
  • Timely open and close case files regarding client matters;
  • Travel throughout New York State and outside of New York State as agreed;
  • Perform related tasks consistent with skills, abilities;
  • Other assignments as mutually agreed.

Qualifications
  • Be a member in good standing of the New York State Bar;
  • Interest and commitment to public interest law;
  • Ability to work efficiently, independently, and collaboratively as part of a team;
  • Excellent communication skills;
  • Relationship-building skills;
  • Strong organizational skills;
  • Strong problem-solving skills;
  • Demonstrated professionalism and ethical judgment;
  • Multilingual skills preferred;
  • Ability to work with diverse groups of individuals.

Preferred Experience
  • Public interest, civil rights, or disability law experience;
  • Litigation and administrative hearing experience;
  • Experience working with diverse populations.
  • NYS Driver's license preferred.

Working Conditions
The Volunteer Attorney usually performs work remotely or in an office environment. The mission of the organization may sometimes take a Volunteer Attorney to non-standard workplaces. The Volunteer Attorney may be invited to travel to various events.
The position is unpaid.
To view more about our organization, check out our YouTube videos highlighting DRNY's mission in advocating for the civil rights of individuals with disabilities. Please visit our DRNY YouTube Channel and review our DRNY Press Releases.
Position Requirements
Exempt/Non-Exempt
Exempt
Full-Time/Part-Time
-unspecified-
Location
Disability Rights New York - Rochester
Position
Volunteer Attorney
Number of Openings
1
This position is currently accepting applications.

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