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Human Rights Lawyer Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Human Rights Lawyer information

See Utah salary details

$42.8K

$91.6K

$125.6K

How much do human rights lawyer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for human rights lawyer in Utah is $91,607.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,900.00 and $93,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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?

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 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 the most commonly searched types of Human Rights Lawyer jobs in Utah?

The most popular types of Human Rights Lawyer jobs in Utah are:

What are popular job titles related to Human Rights Lawyer jobs in Utah?

For Human Rights Lawyer jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Human Rights Lawyer jobs in Utah look for?

The top searched job categories for Human Rights Lawyer jobs in Utah are:

Infographic showing various Human Rights Lawyer job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,607 per year, or $44 per hour.

Assistant Attorney General - Litigation - Employment

Utah Division of Human Resource Management

Salt Lake City, UT โ€ข On-site

$61.08 - $89.70/hr

Full-time, Part-time

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Assistant Attorney General - Litigation - Employment
FT / PT Status - Full-Time
Salary - $61.08 - $89.70 Hourly Wage
Remote Work / In-Office - In-Office / On-SiteRecruiter - Desi Crane aghr@agutah.gov 801-597-4659
Application Deadline - 8/16/2026
Key Responsibilities
Assistant Attorney General - Employment
The Office of the Utah Attorney General, Litigation Division, has an opening for an attorney to defend government entities and their employees in civil litigation involving employment disputes and related civil rights matters in state courts, federal courts, and administrative tribunals. In addition, the attorney will provide employment advice to client agencies.
Preference may be given to applicants with experience with Title VII, Title IX, ADA, ADEA, and with representing government entities and their employees in employment matters and in civil litigation.
Applicant should possess excellent written and oral advocacy skills and should have the experience and ability to independently take over an existing caseload, conduct discovery, draft dispositive motions, argue motions in court, and try jury and non-jury cases of a complicated nature.
Membership in good standing in the Utah State Bar, or qualification for practice pending admission to the Utah Bar under Utah Supreme Court Rule of Professional Practice 14-809, is required. Travel may be required as employee will need to represent clients throughout the State.
Responsibilities
  • Prepare cases for trial by conducting legal research and gathering evidence.
  • Conduct trial by preparing all pretrial documents (motions in limine, jury instructions, etc.), making opening statement, conducting direct and cross-examinations, making closing argument.
  • Provide consultation, make recommendations, give appropriate advice to client agencies.
  • Determine discovery needs, conduct depositions, complete written discovery; participate in strategy sessions to prepare case for trial, determine evidence to use and how to present.
  • Write/draft motions, court briefs, correspondence, and reports.
  • Represent the State, client agencies, school districts, universities and colleges, and charter schools in lawsuits and administrative proceedings.
  • May be required to travel to various locations and stay overnight.

Qualifications
  • A Juris Doctorate is required.
  • Risks found in the typical office setting, which is adequately lighted, heated and ventilated, e.g., safe use of office equipment, avoiding trips and falls, observing fire regulations, etc.
  • Typically, the employee may sit comfortably to perform the work; however, there may be some walking; standing; bending; carrying light items; driving an automobile, etc. Special physical demands are not required to perform the work.
  • A conditional offer of employment will be made pending a satisfactory completion of a background investigation.
  • Must be able to travel as required.
  • Valid driver license required to drive a motor vehicle on a highway in this state per UCA 53-3-202(1)(a).
  • Active membership in the Utah State Bar.
  • Salary is calculated based on initial Bar admittance year, less any years not practicing law, as outlined below:

Grade Level Bar Year Approximate Salary
I 2023-2025 $121,500
II 2020-2022 $127,700
III 2016-2019 $134,300
IV 2006-2015 $140,900 - $147,900
IV 1996-2005 $147,900 - $161,000
IV 1995-Prior $161,000 - $175,000
About the Role
Location -
160 East 300 South
Salt Lake City, Utah, 84111
United States
Background Check Required - You must successfully pass a criminal history check.
Schedule Code - AG - Employees at the Attorney General's Office
Why You Should Join Our Team
If you are looking to make a meaningful impact while working in a dynamic, fast-paced legal environment, the Attorney General's Office offers a unique opportunity. As counselors, protectors, and stewards, the Office plays a vital role in defending both the U.S. and Utah constitutions, protecting residents, and preserving the resources that make Utah special. You'll contribute to upholding justice, advising state agencies, and safeguarding the rights and interests of Utah's citizens. With responsibilities ranging from prosecuting corporate misconduct to enforcing public lands policy and supporting children's justice initiatives, your work here will be both diverse and rewarding. Join a team dedicated to serving the public and advancing the cause of justice in Utah.
In Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah, click here. Other benefits may include:
  • Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
  • Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
  • Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
  • Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

EEO StatementThe State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (385) 271-5803.