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Disability Rights Attorney Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

... disability rights issues since 1999. We are looking for people across New York State to serve as ... Our affiliated attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning there is no upfront cost for filing a ...

Senior Staff Attorney

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$96 - $131/hr

... disabilities, formerly incarcerated people, and others whose experiences reflect the diversity of ... Legal Department staff work on a wide range of civil rights and civil liberties cases in federal ...

Hybrid, Women-owned foreclosure and creditors' rights law firm representing banks and financial ... Life, short-term, and long-term disability insurance * Paid time off: 15 vacation days, 5 personal ...

Showing results 21-40

Disability Rights Attorney information

See New York salary details

$50.9K

$130.3K

$234.7K

How much do disability rights attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for disability rights attorney in New York is $130,297.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,900.00 and $169,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 are popular job titles related to Disability Rights Attorney jobs in New York?

For Disability Rights Attorney jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Disability Rights Attorney jobs in New York look for?

The top searched job categories for Disability Rights Attorney jobs in New York are:

What cities in New York are hiring for Disability Rights Attorney jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Disability Rights Attorney job openings:

Infographic showing various Disability Rights Attorney job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,297 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Pro Bono Scholar Intern

Disability Advocates Inc. dba Disability Rights Ne

Brooklyn, NY • On-site, Remote

Full-time, Part-time, Internship

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

The Pro Bono Legal Intern utilizes the education, knowledge and experiences acquired during their undergraduate and graduate education.  The fundamental purpose of an internship is to provide the student with practical experiences and an opportunity to enhance skills through active participation and involvement, direct exposure and engagement in a variety of functions. The Pro Bono Legal Intern will work closely with the various Staff Attorneys and staff members to prepare for a career in the legal field.

This is an unpaid internship.  Interns may be eligible for academic course credit with school approval.  Interns may also apply for funding from their school or other available sources. The internship can be full-time or part-time.

Essential Functions

The Pro Bono Legal Intern performs a wide range of duties, including the following:

  • Assist Staff Attorneys with the preparation of legal documents for trials, hearings, and depositions;
  • Attend trials, hearings, depositions, and related events;
  • Provide critical research and feedback to the attorneys for any case, study, or assigned tasks;
  • Conduct analysis on legal strategies for the various programs supported by DRNY;
  • Proofread and provide content suggestions for legal documentation;
  • Provide general legal support to the program attorneys;
  • Other duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

  • Must be enrolled in an accredited law school and have completed the law school coursework;
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word/Excel/Outlook/PowerPoint);
  • Ability to write and present in a polished and professional manner;
  • Strong communication skills;
  • Must have highest standard of organization and attention to detail;
  • Experience working with individuals with disabilities (preferred);
  • Passionate about issues affecting individuals with disabilities (preferred);
  • Excellent legal research skills;
  • Commitment to the mission and vision of DRNY;
  • Self-motivated and able to work independently;
  • Ability to prioritize and manage projects and tasks to meet deadlines; and
  • Able to work remotely with personal internet access.

Working Conditions

  • Work typically performed remotely with the majority of time spent working on a computer;
  • This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, and phones;
  • May have some travel within and outside the state as necessary for firsthand experience.

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.