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Human Rights Law Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Civil Rights Attorney

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

CAIR-CA is seeking a dedicated attorney to advance and defend the civil and human rights of the ... Civil Rights/Civil Liberties (Religious Freedom), Employment, National Security & Law Enforcement ...

Civil Rights Attorney

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

CAIR-CA is seeking a dedicated attorney to advance and defend the civil and human rights of the ... Civil Rights/Civil Liberties (Religious Freedom), Employment, National Security & Law Enforcement ...

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Showing results 1-20

Human Rights Law information

See California salary details

$13

$25

$41

How much do human rights law jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for human rights law in California is $25.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $28.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is human rights law?

Human rights law is a branch of law that focuses on protecting the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals. It covers legal standards, both international and domestic, that ensure people are treated fairly and with dignity, regardless of nationality, gender, ethnicity, or other status. Human rights lawyers work on cases involving issues like discrimination, freedom of speech, torture, and the right to a fair trial. This field often involves advocacy, litigation, and policy work to uphold human rights standards globally.

What can you do with a human rights law degree?

A human rights law degree prepares individuals for roles such as human rights lawyer, legal advocate, policy analyst, or nonprofit director. Graduates often work for NGOs, international organizations, or government agencies, utilizing skills in legal research, advocacy, and understanding international law. Certification or experience in litigation and international law can enhance employment opportunities.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Human rights law typically requires advanced education and legal qualifications, making high weekly pay without a degree uncommon in this field. However, some high-paying sales, real estate, or entrepreneurial roles can earn around $4,000 weekly with experience and strong skills. These jobs often rely on commissions, performance, or business ownership rather than formal degrees.

What is the difference between Human Rights Law vs Immigration Law?

AspectHuman Rights LawImmigration Law
Required CredentialsLaw degree, bar admission, specialization in human rightsLaw degree, bar admission, specialization in immigration
Work EnvironmentNonprofit organizations, international courts, NGOsGovernment agencies, law firms, immigration courts
Employer & IndustryInternational bodies, NGOs, advocacy groupsFederal/state agencies, private firms, immigration services

Human Rights Law focuses on protecting fundamental rights globally, often involving advocacy and international legal frameworks. Immigration Law centers on assisting individuals with visas, asylum, and residency issues within a specific country. While both require legal expertise and involve advocacy, their scope, work environment, and client focus differ significantly.

Do human rights lawyers make money?

Human rights lawyers' salaries vary widely depending on experience, location, and employer type, such as non-profit organizations or private firms. Entry-level positions may offer modest pay, while experienced lawyers working for international organizations or in private practice can earn higher salaries. Many also pursue additional certifications or specialized skills to increase earning potential.

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

To thrive as a Human Rights Lawyer, you need a law degree, admission to the bar, and a solid understanding of international and domestic human rights law. Familiarity with legal research databases, case management software, and relevant international legal instruments is typically required. Strong advocacy, cultural sensitivity, and effective communication are critical soft skills for representing diverse clients and working with various organizations. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure effective legal representation, influence policy, and protect fundamental rights in complex legal environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Human Rights Law?

Professionals in Human Rights Law often encounter challenges such as managing emotionally intense cases, navigating complex international and domestic legal frameworks, and dealing with limited resources when advocating for vulnerable populations. Balancing client needs with the demands of advocacy and litigation can be demanding, especially when cases involve sensitive issues or exist in politically charged contexts. However, working collaboratively with NGOs, government agencies, and international bodies helps build support systems and enhances the overall impact of their work.

What can I do with human rights law?

A career in human rights law involves advocating for the protection and promotion of fundamental rights and freedoms. Human rights lawyers work on cases related to discrimination, abuse, and social justice, often working for NGOs, government agencies, or international organizations. Skills in research, legal analysis, and understanding international law are essential, and some roles may require specialized certifications or language skills.
What cities in California are hiring for Human Rights Law jobs? Cities in California with the most Human Rights Law job openings:
Infographic showing various Human Rights Law job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,298 per year, or $25.6 per hour.
Legal Director, Global Human Rights & Accountability

Legal Director, Global Human Rights & Accountability

University of Southern California

Glendale, CA

$143K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


University Of Southern California rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

105th of 553 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The University of Southern California is seeking a Legal Director and Clinical Supervising Attorney to lead its new Justice & Accountability Initiative. The role involves crucial responsibilities like managing legal strategies and supervising law students. The ideal candidate has a J.D., substantial litigation experience in human rights, and excellent mentoring skills.

This fixed-term position offers a salary range of $143,193.60 - $180,000 annually and the opportunity to impact human rights advocacy significantly.

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About University of Southern California

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Southern California (USC) is not a conventional company, but a private research university established in the heart of Los Angeles, CA, US. Founded in 1880, it's one of the oldest private research universities in California. USC operates in the education industry providing primary services of higher education, research, and community development. This prestigious institution offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The University is guided by its commitment to foster creativity, innovation, leadership, and discovery through academic excellence.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles , CA, US

Year founded

1880