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Civil Rights Attorney Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Staff Attorney - Immigration

Anaheim, CA ยท On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Join the largest American Muslim civil rights organization at the frontlines in protecting the rights of free speech, to freely practice one's faith, to pursue employment opportunities without ...

Staff Attorney - Immigration

Anaheim, CA ยท On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

... largest American Muslim civil rights organization at the frontlines in protecting the ... The Immigrants' Rights Attorney supports the Immigrants' Rights Center team by handling full-scope ...

Civil Rights Paralegal

New York, NY ยท On-site

$50K - $75K/yr

Prior experience in civil rights litigation * 1+ years of paralegal/legal assistant experience RESPONSIBILITIES The successful candidate will support our attorneys in all aspects of litigation ...

At Mitchell School The ideal candidate for this position will be someone who possesses an interest in the Maine Civil Rights Team Project through the Maine Attorney General. This candidate will ...

At Mitchell School The ideal candidate for this position will be someone who possesses an interest in the Maine Civil Rights Team Project through the Maine Attorney General. This candidate will ...

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Civil Rights Attorney information

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$113K

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How much do civil rights attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil rights attorney in the United States is $112,990.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,000.00 and $132,500.00 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.
More about Civil Rights Attorney jobs
What cities are hiring for Civil Rights Attorney jobs? Cities with the most Civil Rights Attorney job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Civil Rights Attorney jobs? The most popular types of Civil Rights Attorney jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Civil Rights Attorney jobs? The top employers for Civil Rights Attorney jobs are:
What states have the most Civil Rights Attorney jobs? States with the most job openings for Civil Rights Attorney jobs include:
Infographic showing various Civil Rights Attorney job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,990 per year, or $54.3 per hour.

Staff Attorney - Immigration

Council on American-Islamic Relations

Anaheim, CA โ€ข Hybrid

$75K - $95K/yr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Work Location:Anaheim, CA.

Term:Full-time, temporary for up to one year from start date, occasional evening and weekends required

Position Status:Exempt

Pay Range:$75,000-$95,000, commensurate with experience.

Reports to: Senior Managing Immigrants' Rights Attorney

Requirements: Access to reliable transportation

Generous Benefits: 100% employer-paid medical and dental insurance for employees & dependents, 401(k) plan with an employer match, 12 vacation days, 10 sick days and 12 holidays, and hybrid work schedule with three days in the office and two days from home. Budget for legal association membership fee, bar license renewal fee, CLE funding support, and malpractice insurance.

About Us:Join the largest American Muslim civil rights organization at the frontlines in protecting the rightsoffree speech, to freely practice one's faith, to pursue employment opportunities without harassment, and to live as an active and engaged American without reprisal.The Council on American-Islamic Relations, California (CAIR-CA) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3), grassroots civil rights and advocacy group. We recognize that our employees are passionate, and talented and are our most valuable resource. With such an important vision to be a leading advocate for justice and mutual understanding, our diverse workforce stands together to demonstrate our values for everyone who chooses to join the efforts.

About the Role: CAIR-CA provides legal immigration services to refugees, asylum seekers, and the diverse immigrant community in California.The Immigrants' Rights Attorney will report to the Senior Managing Immigrants' Rights Attorney and is primarily responsible for maintaining a full caseload, by providing immigration legal consultations and direct legal representation to clients before USCIS, EOIR, and other federal agencies. The Immigrants' Rights Attorney supports the Immigrants' Rights Center team by handling full-scope consultation and representation of various immigration cases, participating in community engagements, outreach and assisting with deliverable requirements for grants as needed.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE

  • Conduct client intakes and legal screenings to provide consultations.
  • Prepare immigration applications and petitions for submission to the appropriate agency.
  • Research and analyze legal sources such as statutes, legal articles and legal codes to prepare legal documents such as memos, training material, advisories, motions and appeals.
  • Handle a full caseload of immigration cases, including affirmative relief before USCIS and removal defense cases before EOIR.
  • Represent clients before USCIS, ICE, CBP, DOS and EOIR.
  • Oversee work of volunteers and law clerk as needed, including law students and interns to ensure their success by providing training, consultation, and guidance.
  • Oversee work of case workers, DOJ Accredited Representative, attorneys and case workers as needed.
  • Participate in community outreach and educational activities, including planning and conducting legal clinics, KYRs, and other community events.
  • Participate in, lead, and/or form coalitions with partner organizations, while collaborating with and uplifting immigrant communities and immigrant-led organizations.
  • Provide staff with case information that is relevant to grant reports.
  • Assist with data collection for grant reports.
  • Other office duties as needed including day-to-day operational tasks and assisting with organizational fundraising events.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Law degree from an American Bar Association-accredited school is required.
  • License to practice law in the United States is required
  • At least 2 years of immigration law experience, specifically in areas of asylum, family-based petitions, removal defense, and naturalization is required.
  • At least one year of experience in various humanitarian-based immigration applications is preferred.
  • Experience working with nonprofit organizations supporting marginalized communities preferred.
  • Strong time management skills with a demonstrated ability for meeting deadlines.
  • Demonstrated problem-solving skills with outstanding attention to detail.
  • Ability to be productive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills including public speaking experience.
  • Experience working with people from diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds.
  • Access to reliable transportation to drive to various Southern California cities for client interviews and hearings.
  • Ability to maintain discretion and client confidentiality.
  • High degree of self-motivation and creativity.
  • A strong commitment to CAIR's mission.
  • Basic computer proficiency including knowledge of MS Office Suite.
  • Knowledge of cloud applications such as SharePoint, Office365 and social media applications.

TO APPLY:Please upload a (1) cover letter discussing your interest in the position, (2) your resume, and (3) a writing sample under five pages.

CAIR-CA is an equal-opportunity employer and adheres to all federal, state, and local laws prohibiting employment discrimination.