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Human Rights Attorney Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

... original human thoughts, arguments, and ideas. During the hiring process, it is particularly ... For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

... original human thoughts, arguments, and ideas. During the hiring process, it is particularly ... For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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Showing results 1-20

Human Rights Attorney information

See Illinois salary details

$54.8K

$148.9K

$305.2K

How much do human rights attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for human rights attorney in Illinois is $148,855.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,600.00 and $182,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Human Rights Attorney position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Human Rights Attorney, you need a robust understanding of human rights law, strong legal research and writing abilities, and a Juris Doctor degree with relevant bar admission. Familiarity with legal research databases (like Westlaw or LexisNexis), international legal frameworks, and certifications in human rights law are often required. Excellent advocacy, negotiation skills, cultural sensitivity, and resilience under pressure distinguish outstanding professionals in this field. These skills are crucial for effectively representing clients, advancing human rights causes, and navigating complex, often emotionally charged legal challenges.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Human Rights Attorney?

As a Human Rights Attorney, your daily responsibilities may include conducting legal research, drafting briefs and legal documents, meeting with clients or advocacy groups, and representing clients in court or before administrative bodies. You will often investigate claims of human rights abuses, collaborate with non-governmental organizations or international bodies, and stay informed about relevant legal developments. The role may also involve advocating for policy changes or public awareness initiatives. These tasks require strong communication and organizational skills, as well as a deep commitment to justice and human rights.

What does a Human Rights Attorney do?

A Human Rights Attorney advocates for individuals and groups whose fundamental rights have been violated. They may work on cases involving discrimination, refugee rights, freedom of speech, or humanitarian law. Their responsibilities include legal research, representation in court, policy advocacy, and working with international human rights organizations. They often collaborate with NGOs, government agencies, and advocacy groups to promote and protect human rights globally.

What are popular job titles related to Human Rights Attorney jobs in Illinois? For Human Rights Attorney jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Human Rights Attorney job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $148,855 per year, or $71.6 per hour.
Litigation Associate Attorney

Litigation Associate Attorney

Chicago Legal Search, Ltd.

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Our boutique law firm client in the western suburbs is seeking an associate with 3-5+ years of experience to join its dynamic and growing Litigation Practice. This associate should have experience in one or more of the following areas: (1) general commercial litigation; (2) employment litigation in state and federal courts; (3) labor disputes before a variety of administrative agencies, such as the the Illinois Education Labor Relations Board, the National Labor Relations Board, the Illinois Workersโ€™ Compensation Commission, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Illinois Department of Human Rights, the Illinois Human Rights Commission, and the Illinois Department of Labor; and/or (4) litigation proceedings involving student residency, suspension/expulsion, and special education. This is a unique opportunity for an associate to work in a small, family friendly and welcoming office, and be mentored by partners who are truly committed to ensuring your long-term career success as a litigator. The base salary range is $120k-$150k and the target billables are only 1,800.

Company Description

Top AM 100 law firm with global reach.

Chicago Legal Search logo

About Chicago Legal Search

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a diversity-owned and managed Chicago-based company with a long-standing reputation as a trusted-advisor and recruiting partner within the legal community. We have a 30+ year demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion within the Chicago legal workforce. Our recruiters work with candidates to understand both their career and personal aspirations to make strategic decisions, which increases the likelihood of a successful, long-term fit with a new employer. Many of our recruiters are attorneys with different substantive practice area backgrounds. We understand how important it is to identify opportunities that are compatible with your interests, areas of expertise, and career goals. We maintain a carefully cultivated network of professional, business, and personal contacts that provides us with the insight to best advise you on how to make the most of your career options.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1988

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