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Human Rights Lawyer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

U.S Comm for Refuge

Staff Attorney

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$88K - $91K/yr

USCRI seeks to hire an experienced bilingual immigration attorney who can professionally conduct ... Demonstrated commitment to immigration, social justice, and human rights. TRAINING REQUIREMENTS • ...

Ingham County

Assistant Prosecuting Attorney

Lansing, MI · On-site

$79K - $125K/yr

This includes, but is not limited to, advising the Department of Health and Human Services ... Comply with the Crime Victims' Rights Act by notifying and consulting with victims on relevant ...

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All JobsHuman Rights Lawyer JobsHuman Rights Lawyer Jobs in Michigan

Human Rights Lawyer information

See Michigan salary details

$41K

$87.7K

$120.3K

How much do human rights lawyer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for human rights lawyer in Michigan is $87,705.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,900.00 and $89,800.00 per year, 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, freedom of speech, and social justice. They research laws, prepare legal documents, and represent clients in court or negotiations, often requiring strong research and advocacy skills.

What does a Human Rights Lawyer do?

A Human Rights Lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in cases involving the protection and promotion of fundamental rights and freedoms. They represent individuals or groups whose rights have been violated and may work on issues such as discrimination, freedom of speech, or asylum cases. Human Rights Lawyers can work for non-governmental organizations, government agencies, or in private practice, and they often engage in litigation, advocacy, and policy development to uphold human rights standards.

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, bar admission, and a deep understanding of international human rights law and legal research. Familiarity with legal research databases, case management software, and international legal frameworks is typically required. Excellent advocacy, cross-cultural communication, and resilience are vital soft skills for working with diverse clients and sensitive cases. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively protecting individuals' rights and achieving justice in complex legal environments.

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 NGO staff member. Graduates can work in legal clinics, international organizations, or government agencies, often requiring strong research, advocacy, and legal skills. Additional certifications or language skills may enhance employment opportunities.

How to make $500,000 as a lawyer?

A human rights lawyer can reach a $500,000 income by gaining extensive experience, working for high-paying organizations, or establishing a private practice with a strong client base. Specializing in complex cases, developing a reputation, and continuously improving legal skills can also increase earning potential.

Do human rights lawyers make money?

Human rights lawyers' salaries vary depending on experience, location, and employer, with many working for non-profit organizations or government agencies. Entry-level positions typically pay less, while experienced lawyers or those in private practice can earn higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, and some may earn additional income through speaking engagements or consulting.

What are some common challenges faced by human rights lawyers in their daily work?

Human rights lawyers often deal with complex cases that can be emotionally and mentally demanding, especially when representing vulnerable populations or confronting systemic injustices. They may encounter resistance from authorities, limited access to resources, and lengthy legal processes that require persistence and resilience. Additionally, balancing advocacy with legal strategy while maintaining client confidentiality and security is a frequent challenge. Collaboration with NGOs, international organizations, and multidisciplinary teams is essential to build strong cases and drive meaningful change.

What is the difference between Human Rights Lawyer vs Civil Rights Attorney?

AspectHuman Rights LawyerCivil Rights Attorney
CredentialsLaw degree, bar admission, specialization in international or human rights lawLaw degree, bar admission, focus on domestic civil rights law
Work EnvironmentNonprofit organizations, international courts, government agenciesLaw firms, government agencies, advocacy groups
Industry UsageInternational human rights organizations, NGOs, UN bodiesLegal practice focusing on discrimination, voting rights, and equality issues

Human Rights Lawyers primarily focus on international and global issues, often working with NGOs or international bodies. Civil Rights Attorneys concentrate on domestic issues like discrimination and voting rights. Both roles require legal credentials but differ in scope and work environment.

What are popular job titles related to Human Rights Lawyer jobs in Michigan? For Human Rights Lawyer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Human Rights Lawyer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Human Rights Lawyer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Human Rights Lawyer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Human Rights Lawyer job openings:
Human Rights Lawyer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Human Rights Lawyer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,705 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Staff Attorney

U.S Comm for Refuge

Dearborn, MI • On-site

$88K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI), is a non-governmental, not-for-profit international organization with a mission to protect the rights and address the needs of persons in migration by advancing fair and humane public policy, facilitating, and providing direct professional services, and promoting the full participation of migrants in community life. For over 100 years, we have shaped history with the belief that immigrants strengthen our communities, economy and social fabric through freedom, hard work, and family unity. To learn more about our work, please go to our official website at www.refugees.org.

OVERVIEW

USCRI has received federal funding through the Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime to provide culturally appropriate and trauma‑informed pro bono case management and legal services to foreign national victims of human trafficking in both the Detroit metropolitan area and Austin, Texas, for a three‑year grant period. The program is called STARS: Surviving Trauma and Reaching Success.
USCRI seeks to hire an experienced bilingual immigration attorney who can professionally conduct the duties and responsibilities listed herein throughout the duration of the grant period at an office located in or nearby Detroit, Michigan.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Conducting intakes and providing legal consultations to determine eligibility for legal relief;
  • Preparing and submitting immigration applications for the following:
    • Asylum
    • T and U Visas
    • Special Immigrant Juvenile Status
    • VAWA
    • TPS
    • Naturalization
    • Adjustment of Status
    • Work Authorization
  • Making appropriate referrals to other service providers and relevant community partners;
  • Representing clients before U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the Executive Office for Immigration Review, and the Board of Immigration Appeals;
  • Conducting outreach, leading trainings, and participating in networking activities;
  • Maintaining bar membership through continuing legal education; and
  • Other responsibilities as assigned by the Managing Attorney.

All of the above duties and responsibilities are essential job functions subject to reasonable accommodation. All job duties indicated is not to be an exhaustive statement and other job-related duties may be assigned as required by the supervisor(s).

REQUIREMENTS

  • J.D. with a valid license to practice law, member of the State Bar preferred;
  • At least two (2) years of experience practicing immigration law;
  • Ability to commute to the office on a daily basis throughout the work week;
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, including strong writing and demonstrated intercultural communication ability;
  • Spanish fluency preferred.
  • High-level of proficiency in MS Word, MS Access, MS Excel and database programs;
  • Flexibility for frequent evening and weekend work;
  • Positive attitude and willingness to be part of a team and also work independently is desirable; and
  • Demonstrated commitment to immigration, social justice, and human rights.


TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

• Satisfactory completion of USCRI’s Orientation and Training;

• Complete additional training as identified by supervisor or Human Resources.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  • To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Such accommodations must be requested by the applicant to be considered.

ADDITIONAL NOTES

  • Please submit a resume with a cover letter describing your interest and qualifications with your online application.
  • References will be required at time of the final interview.
  • No telephone calls please. Position will remain open until filled.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants is an equal opportunity employer. We maintain a policy of equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, domestic partnership status, marital status, physical or mental disability, AIDS/HIV status, age, political affiliation, genetic information, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.