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Human Rights Law Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Jewish Committee

$48K - $65K/yr

Supervisory Role A graduate degree, preferably in law, is required. A minimum of one year of professional experience at or engaging with the United Nations or regional organizations or human rights ...

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How much do human rights law jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for human rights law in the United States is $25.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do human rights lawyers do?

Human rights lawyers advocate for individuals and groups whose rights have been violated, often working on cases related to discrimination, torture, or freedom of expression. They research laws, prepare legal documents, and represent clients in court or negotiations to promote justice and compliance with international human rights standards.

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 government agencies, international organizations, or NGOs, utilizing skills in legal research, advocacy, and case analysis to promote justice and protect vulnerable populations.

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.

How much do top human rights lawyers make?

Top human rights lawyers can earn between $100,000 and $200,000 or more annually, depending on experience, location, and the organization they work for. Senior attorneys at prominent NGOs or international agencies tend to have higher salaries, often supplemented by benefits and bonuses.

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.

How to get a career in human rights law?

To pursue a career in human rights law, obtain a law degree and gain experience through internships or volunteer work with human rights organizations. Developing strong research, advocacy, and communication skills, as well as understanding international law and human rights treaties, is essential for success in this field.
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Human Rights Law jobs near you
paralegal and Legal Assist -24062

paralegal and Legal Assist -24062

Knowledge Builders Inc.

Manhattan, NY

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Description Paralegals and Legal Assistants Adam Clayton Powell State Office Building DUTIES DESCRIPTION: 1) One of the candidates MUST be bilingual (Spanish) 2) Interacts with the public and Division staff, responding to general oral and written inquiries regarding the Division, the complaint process, the rights and responsibilities of parties and witnesses, and specific complaints brought under the Human Rights Law. Interacts and communicates in a professional and courteous manner, seeking assistance and supervision, where appropriate. Provides necessary assistance to Agency Program Aides.

Maintains knowledge of the Human Rights Law (HRL), other anti-discrimination laws, and current Division policies and procedures. 3) Assists complainants with information and completion of complaint forms. Interacts and communicates in a professional and courteous manner, seeking assistance and supervision, where appropriate.

Follows guidelines and accurately enters comprehensible data into case managements systems within the same day if possible, but no longer than three work days. Conducts interviews in a timely manner. 4) Attempts to assist parties in reaching acceptable resolution of complaints.

Interacts and communicates in a professional, fair, impartial and courteous manner, seeking assistance and supervision, where appropriate. Follows procedural guidelines regarding prompt conciliation of complaints and accurately enters comprehensible data regarding conciliation attempts into case management systems within the say day, if possible, but no longer than two days. Maintains knowledge of best mediation and negotiating practices, when management provides training for those skills.

5) Conducts investigations by organizing documents, developing the investigation, speaking with parties and witnesses, documenting and tracking case events, and generating forms, recommendations and reports. Promptly reviews complaints upon assignment. Accurately identifies lack of jurisdiction, dually filed cases and any deficiencies and immediately initiates dismissals, follow-up or corrective measures, as appropriate.

Develops strategies and tactics, with supervisory approval, and accurately applies knowledge of Human Rights Law and other anti-discrimination laws relevant to investigation. Appropriately and accurately assesses witnesses' ability to offer relevant information. Addresses all allegations of discrimination.

Gathers appropriate data. Completes objective, precise and concise reports within three business days of interviews that ultimately support the recommended determination. Accurately enters pertinent and comprehensible data into case management systems within three days of receipt.

Follows Division format and policy for assembling data. As current office demands require, complete a minimum of 108-120 cases to be averaged over the course of a year, taking into consideration both short and long range program objectives and the requirements of the Human Rights Law, and other applicable anti - discrimination laws. 6) At the direction or approval of the Regional Director, performs outreach related duties that foster positive community relationships.

Interacts and communicates in a professional and courteous manner. Gives accurate information and referrals. To the extent possible and practicable, develops presentation and public speaking skills to provide technical assistance, such as training and presentations relevant to the HRL to community groups, educational institutions, businesses and other organizations.

Cultivates positive relationships that benefit the agency.

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