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Disability Rights Attorney Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Staff Attorney

New Orleans, LA · On-site

$52K - $70K/yr

Disability Rights Louisiana (DRLA) has an immediate opening for Staff Attorney to join our Legal Team. Are you passionate and dedicated to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities? The ideal ...

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Disability Rights Attorney information

See salary details

$46.5K

$119.1K

$214.5K

How much do disability rights attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for disability rights attorney in the United States is $119,097.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Disability Rights Attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Disability Rights Attorney, you need a law degree, active bar membership, and in-depth knowledge of disability law, such as the ADA and Section 504. Familiarity with legal research databases, case management software, and courtroom procedures is typically required. Exceptional advocacy, empathy, and strong written and verbal communication skills help build trust with clients and influence legal outcomes. These skills are vital to effectively represent individuals with disabilities, ensure compliance, and drive systemic change.

What is the difference between Disability Rights Attorney vs Disability Advocate?

AspectDisability Rights AttorneyDisability Advocate
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar LicenseNo formal legal credentials required, but often experienced in disability issues
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, courts, legal clinicsNonprofits, community organizations, advocacy groups
Employer & IndustryLegal industry, government agencies
Primary FocusLegal representation, litigation, legal advicePolicy advocacy, awareness campaigns, support services

Disability Rights Attorneys focus on legal representation and litigation to protect clients' rights, while Disability Advocates work on policy change and raising awareness without necessarily providing legal services. Both roles are vital in advancing disability rights but differ in their methods and credentials.

What does a Disability Rights Attorney do?

A Disability Rights Attorney is a legal professional who advocates for the rights of individuals with disabilities. They work on cases involving discrimination, accessibility, education, employment, and public accommodations under laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These attorneys may represent clients in court, negotiate settlements, and provide guidance on legal compliance. Their goal is to ensure that people with disabilities receive equal opportunities and are protected from unfair treatment.

What are some common challenges Disability Rights Attorneys face when advocating for clients?

Disability Rights Attorneys often encounter challenges related to complex and evolving regulations, balancing large caseloads, and navigating bureaucratic systems to secure accommodations and protections for clients. They may need to educate employers, schools, or public entities on compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other relevant laws. Additionally, building trust with clients—who may have experienced discrimination or systemic barriers—requires empathy, patience, and strong communication skills. Collaborating with social workers, healthcare professionals, and advocacy groups is also a key part of the role.
More about Disability Rights Attorney jobs
What cities are hiring for Disability Rights Attorney jobs? Cities with the most Disability Rights Attorney job openings:
What states have the most Disability Rights Attorney jobs? States with the most job openings for Disability Rights Attorney jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Disability Rights Attorney jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Disability Rights Attorney jobs are:
Infographic showing various Disability Rights Attorney job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,097 per year, or $57.3 per hour.
Disability Rights-Medicaid Litigation Attorney

Disability Rights-Medicaid Litigation Attorney

Disability Rights Michigan

Lansing, MI • On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Disability Rights-Medicaid Litigation Attorney


This is a five-year position, funded by grants from the State Bar Foundation and a private donor, to focus on Medicaid litigation and advocacy. The position may be extended beyond five years if funding permits.


Candidate must have a Juris Doctor degree from an accredited school of law and be admitted to practice law in Michigan. Minimum three years’ relevant litigation experience, ideally involving complex litigation, 1983 litigation, Medicaid Act litigation, and/or ADA litigation. Administrative hearing experience is highly desired.


Salary range is $70,000-$77,000. Candidates with significantly more relevant experience may be considered for a Senior Attorney position (salary range is $87,000-$95,000). Excellent benefits. Office located in Lansing, but position is hybrid with flexibility.


A resume, cover letter and writing sample are required.


Responsibilities

Provide direct representation to individuals with disabilities in courts (state and federal) and administrative proceedings in matters concerning Medicaid coverage and services. Representation includes, but is not limited to, complex Medicaid and litigation (including class actions) and Medicaid Fair Hearings.


Highlight of Duties and Responsibilities:


  • Represents clients and classes of clients who are eligible for DRM services as set forth above.
  • Assist in developing impact litigation and advocacy strategies, as well as internal litigation and advocacy priorities.
  • Collaborate with DRM staff and outside counsel in carrying out ## 1 and 2.
  • Comply with all applicable professional requirements and internal policies, including DRM case management requirements.
  • Provide support to DRM staff and outside individuals and organizations on issues relating to DRM's work.
  • Design and lead trainings on request.
  • Assist with reporting and similar agency obligations as needed.
  • Represent the perspective of DRM and people with disabilities on task forces, policy groups, coalitions and similar bodies.
  • Regularly attend team and agency-wide staff meetings in office, virtually, or off-site as required.
  • Other job-related duties as assigned.


Disability Rights-Medicaid Litigation Attorney Qualifications


  • Juris Doctor Degree from an accredited law school and admitted to practice law in the state of Michigan.
  • Active membership in the Michigan State Bar.
  • At least three years’ relevant litigation experience, ideally involving complex litigation, 1983 litigation, Medicaid Act litigation, and/or ADA litigation.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead litigation in federal and state courts
  • Demonstrated ability to take a lead role in case planning and litigation management.
  • Valid State of Michigan identification and ability to travel to court, meetings with clients and similar activities as required.
  • Demonstrated commitment to the civil rights of all people and the ability to work with individuals with a variety of disability characteristics and cultural backgrounds.
  • Administrative hearing experience is highly desired.
  • Ability to maintain confidential information.
  • Interpersonal skills necessary to provide effective legal representation to persons with disabilities. Ability to respond to confrontational situations and stressful interactions.
  • Demonstrated ability to respond in an empathetic/compassionate manner while maintaining neutrality and composure to sensitive situations, emotionally charged issues, etc.
  • Technological skills necessary to create high-quality correspondence, legal documents, and educational materials; ability to effectively use DRM's case management system and relevant computer programs.
  • Demonstrated interest and commitment to public interest law (preferably in the area of disability rights) preferred. This includes experience at a legal services organization or similar non-profits.
  • Experience as a person with a disability, or experience working with or living with persons with disabilities, preferred.
  • Successful completion of background check.