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Human Rights Lawyer Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

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Human Rights Lawyer information

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$42.8K

$91.6K

$125.6K

How much do human rights lawyer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 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 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 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:
Human Rights Lawyer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Human Rights Lawyer job openings in Utah as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,607 per year, or $44 per hour.

Assistant Attorney General - Civil Rights

Utah Division of Human Resource Management

Salt Lake City, UT

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Assistant Attorney General - Civil Rights

 The Civil Rights Section of the Litigation Division of the Utah Attorney General's Office seeks an attorney to represent state employees, state agencies, school districts and universities in civil rights litigation.    

The Civil Rights Section defends civil rights litigation against state entities and employees.  These claims are primarily brought in federal court pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 1983 alleging violations of rights under the United States Constitution but may include pendant state-law tort claims and state constitutional claims. The successful applicant should anticipate litigating Eighth Amendment claims alleging inadequate medical care against corrections officers; Fourth Amendment claims alleging excessive force and illegal search and seizure against Utah Highway Patrol Troopers; First Amendment free speech, and Fourteenth Amendment claims against other state agencies and their employees. Attorneys in the Civil Rights Section also defend Universities and school districts in lawsuits alleging Title VI, Title IX, and ADA violations.

 This position requires excellent written and oral advocacy skills.  This position also requires experience and ability to immediately assume primary responsibility for litigating case and litigating 1983 claims in federal court is preferred. 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 Practice14-809, is required. Some travel is required as incumbents will need to represent their clients in civil litigation and other legal proceedings throughout the state.

Responsibilities

         Prepare cases for trial by conducting legal research, gathering evidence, prepare all pretrial documents (motions in limine, jury instructions, etc.), making opening statements, conduct direct and cross-examinations, and make closing arguments.

         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, reports, memoranda, etc.

         Represent the State and client agencies in lawsuits and administrative proceedings.

         May be required to travel to various locations and stay overnight.

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