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Civil Rights Attorney Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Attorney

Washington, DC ยท On-site +1

$85K - $133K/yr

Summary The Civil Rights Division seeks civil and criminal attorneys to work on a variety of significant issues related to the enforcement of federal statutes and executive orders that prohibit ...

Attorney

Washington, DC ยท On-site +1

$121K - $197K/yr

The Civil Rights Division seeks experienced attorneys to work on a variety of significant and complex issues to enforce federal statutes and executive orders that prohibit unlawful discrimination ...

Senior Staff Attorney

Washington, DC ยท Remote

$110K - $130K/yr

Senior Staff Attorney Muslim Advocates (MA)--a national legal-advocacy, social-justice, and ... Experience preparing administrative complaints directed to civil-rights bodies within federal and ...

The Civil Rights Division seeks civil and criminal attorneys to work on a variety of significant issues related to the enforcement of federal statutes and executive orders that prohibit unlawful ...

Showing results 21-40

Civil Rights Attorney information

See Washington, DC salary details

$66.8K

$127.9K

$181.7K

How much do civil rights attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil rights attorney in Washington, DC is $127,925.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,800.00 and $150,000.00 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 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 popular job titles related to Civil Rights Attorney jobs in Washington, DC?

For Civil Rights Attorney jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Civil Rights Attorney jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Civil Rights Attorney jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Civil Rights Attorney job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,925 per year, or $61.5 per hour.

Senior Litigation Attorney

Cair-foundation Inc

Washington, DC โ€ข Remote

$130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Senior Litigation Attorney

The CAIR Legal Defense Fund (CAIR LDF) is seeking a qualified individual for the full-time position of Senior Litigation Attorney to join our team. This position is remote but based at our Washington, D.C., headquarters. The ideal candidate will bring substantial experience in constitutional and complex civil rights litigation in federal court, a demonstrated ability to lead litigation strategy, and a deep commitment to civil rights and government accountability. Comparable high-stakes litigation experience is strongly preferred.

Job Title: Senior Litigation Attorney

Organization: CAIR Legal Defense Fund (a nonprofit subsidiary of CAIR Foundation)

FLSA Status: Exempt

Position: Salaried

Job Reports to CAIR LDF Deputy Director

Location: Remote

Pay Range: The salary for this role is $130,000 annually. The compensation for this role is set and not subject to negotiation.

Position Summary:

CAIR LDF seeks a seasoned Senior Litigation Attorney with demonstrated expertise in federal court litigation, including constitutional and civil rights claims brought under Section 1983 and other federal statutes. The attorney must have experience developing litigation strategy, managing all phases of discovery, supervising junior attorneys or staff, and independently handling hearings, oral argument, and trials.

The position will focus on cutting-edge federal litigation under Section 1983 and other civil rights statutes, involving First and Fourth Amendment violations, unlawful law enforcement practices, surveillance and watch listing, RLUIPA violations, and other forms of systemic discrimination and government overreach.

The Senior Litigation Attorney will be primarily responsible for:

· Leading or co-leading trial teams and collaborating with other attorneys on case strategy.

· Independently managing all aspects of litigation, including but not limited to conducting fact investigations, coordinating expert discovery, taking and defending depositions, drafting and arguing substantive motions, leading trial preparations, and presenting oral arguments in federal court.

· Supervising and mentoring junior attorneys and legal fellows, including reviewing legal work, coaching on litigation practice, and promoting skill development.

· Performing other litigation-related duties as assigned by the CAIR LDF Deputy Director or Director.

· Involvement in appellate litigation.

· Involvement in alternative dispute resolution proceedings and settlement negotiations, and recommending settlements of litigation when appropriate.

· Participating in speaking engagements pertaining to civil rights issues facing the American Muslim community.

· Training and coaching of CAIR LDF staff as requested.

· Attend continuing legal education seminars and keep abreast of changes in the law through reading and other means.

· Travel and weekend hours required as needed.

· And any other duties as required.