Attorney Salary in Chicago, IL

In Chicago, IL, attorneys enjoy a competitive salary that reflects their expertise and dedication. The average yearly salary for attorneys in the city is around $117,582. This figure can vary based on experience, specialization, and the type of employer. Many attorneys start with salaries in the lower range, but as they gain experience and build their reputation, they can see significant increases in their earnings.

The salary distribution shows that the majority of attorneys earn between $61,500 and $148,227 annually. This range includes a broad spectrum of roles, from entry-level positions to more experienced attorneys. For those who advance to higher levels of expertise, salaries can reach up to $300,000 or more. Factors such as the complexity of cases, the size of the law firm, and the attorney's reputation can all influence these higher earnings.

1. Orland Park, IL
   Average Salary: $145,000
   In Orland Park, legal professionals enjoy a vibrant community with a strong focus on family law. Many attorneys work for firms like Orland Park Law Group, where they handle cases ranging from divorce to child custody. The area offers a balanced lifestyle with access to Chicago's legal resources.
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2. Schaumburg, IL
   Average Salary: $132,788
   Schaumburg provides a dynamic environment for attorneys, with many working in corporate law. Companies like Kirkland & Ellis and Seyfarth Shaw attract top talent. The city's business-friendly atmosphere supports growth and development in the legal field.
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3. Crown Point, IN
   Average Salary: $104,464
   Crown Point offers a smaller, community-focused setting for attorneys. Many work in local firms, handling cases from criminal to civil law. The city's close-knit community provides a supportive environment for legal professionals.
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4. Aurora, IL
   Average Salary: $100,069
   Aurora is a bustling city with a diverse legal landscape. Attorneys here often work for firms like Holland & Knight, focusing on areas like healthcare and employment law. The city's growth offers many opportunities for career advancement.
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5. Hammond, IN
   Average Salary: $98,525
   Hammond provides a unique environment for attorneys, with a mix of local and regional cases. Many work in firms like Sutliff & Stout, handling cases from personal injury to family law. The city's diverse community offers a rich legal practice.
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6. Joliet, IL
   Average Salary: $93,309
   Joliet offers a balanced legal practice with a mix of criminal and civil law. Attorneys often work for firms like Joliet Legal Group, providing services to a diverse community. The city's proximity to Chicago offers additional resources and opportunities.
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7. Naperville, IL
   Average Salary: $91,485
   Naperville is a thriving city for attorneys, with a strong focus on corporate law. Many work for firms like Butler Rubin Rosenblum Mintz, handling cases from mergers to litigation. The city's business-friendly environment supports legal growth.
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8. Oak Park, IL
   Average Salary: $88,571
   Oak Park offers a vibrant legal scene with a focus on environmental and civil rights law. Attorneys often work in firms like Sidley Austin, providing services to a diverse community. The city's progressive environment supports innovative legal practices.
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9. Des Plaines, IL
   Average Salary: $87,444
   Des Plaines provides a supportive environment for attorneys, with a mix of local and regional cases. Many work in firms like Winnetka Legal Group, handling cases from family law to criminal defense. The city's community-focused approach offers a balanced legal practice.
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10. Rockford, IL
    Average Salary: $84,701
    Rockford offers a diverse legal practice with a mix of criminal and civil law. Attorneys often work in firms like Rockford Legal Group, providing services to a diverse community. The city's growth offers many opportunities for career advancement.
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1. Chicago Legal Search
   Average Salary: $249,286
   Chicago Legal Search offers top-tier positions for attorneys in various specialties. They work with firms across the city, providing excellent opportunities for career growth.
   

   
   

2. Major, Lindsey & Africa
   Average Salary: $210,000
   Major, Lindsey & Africa is a well-known firm in Chicago. They offer competitive salaries and a supportive environment for attorneys. The firm specializes in complex litigation and corporate law.
   

   
   

3. Illapa Search
   Average Salary: $205,904
   Illapa Search specializes in placing attorneys in top firms in Chicago. They focus on finding the best matches for both candidates and employers. Their attorneys enjoy a collaborative work environment.
   

   
   

4. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
   Average Salary: $187,166
   The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau offers rewarding positions for attorneys in Chicago. They focus on protecting consumers in financial markets. Attorneys work on impactful cases that make a difference.
   

   
   

5. Latitude
   Average Salary: $183,125
   Latitude provides excellent opportunities for attorneys in Chicago. They work with a variety of firms, offering competitive salaries and a dynamic work environment. The company values diversity and inclusion.
   

   
   

6. Mission Recruiting
   Average Salary: $182,265
   Mission Recruiting connects attorneys with top firms in Chicago. They offer a range of positions in different legal specialties. The company is known for its personalized approach to job placement.
   

   
   

7. Nixon Peabody LLP
   Average Salary: $157,650
   Nixon Peabody LLP is a prominent law firm in Chicago. They offer a supportive environment for attorneys. The firm specializes in corporate law, litigation, and intellectual property.
   

   
   

8. Boutique Recruiting
   Average Salary: $155,833
   Boutique Recruiting places attorneys in smaller firms in Chicago. They focus on finding the best fit for both candidates and employers. The company values a collaborative and innovative work environment.
   

   
   

9. United States Department of Justice
   Average Salary: $154,746
   The United States Department of Justice offers rewarding positions for attorneys in Chicago. They work on a variety of cases, from criminal to civil matters. The department values integrity and public service.
   

   
   

10. Wilson Elser
    Average Salary: $153,750
    Wilson Elser is a well-established firm in Chicago. They offer competitive salaries and a supportive environment for attorneys. The firm specializes in litigation and business law.
    

1. General Counsel
   Average Salary: $178,713
   This role involves providing legal advice to a company. It requires a deep understanding of corporate law. Companies like Boeing and Accenture hire for this position. They look for someone who can handle complex legal issues.
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2. Real Estate Attorney
   Average Salary: $158,036
   This job focuses on property law. It involves buying, selling, and managing properties. Firms like Keller Williams and Coldwell Banker hire for this role. They need someone who can navigate real estate transactions smoothly.
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3. Counsel
   Average Salary: $156,505
   Counsel provides legal advice to organizations. They work on various legal matters. Companies like IBM and Microsoft hire for this position. They seek someone with strong analytical skills and legal knowledge.
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4. Estate Planning Attorney
   Average Salary: $155,088
   This role helps people plan their estates. It involves creating wills and trusts. Firms like Northwestern Mutual and Edward Jones hire for this job. They need someone who can handle sensitive personal matters with care.
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5. Patent Attorney
   Average Salary: $138,156
   Patent attorneys help people protect their inventions. They work with inventors to file patents. Companies like Google and Apple hire for this role. They look for someone with a strong background in intellectual property law.
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6. Insurance Attorney
   Average Salary: $133,666
   This job involves handling insurance claims and disputes. It requires a good understanding of insurance law. Firms like Allstate and State Farm hire for this position. They need someone who can navigate complex legal issues related to insurance.
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7. Compliance Officer
   Average Salary: $122,703
   Compliance officers ensure companies follow laws and regulations. They work closely with legal teams. Companies like JPMorgan Chase and Goldman Sachs hire for this role. They seek someone with strong attention to detail and a commitment to legal standards.
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8. Defense Attorney
   Average Salary: $116,354
   Defense attorneys represent clients in criminal cases. They work to protect their clients' rights. Firms like Kirkland & Ellis and Sidley Austin hire for this position. They need someone who can handle high-pressure situations and advocate for their clients effectively.
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9. Research Attorney
   Average Salary: $97,259
   Research attorneys conduct legal research. They provide information to support legal cases. Companies like LexisNexis and Westlaw hire for this role. They need someone with strong research skills and attention to detail.
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10. Staff Attorney
    Average Salary: $95,293
    Staff attorneys work for organizations. They handle a variety of legal matters. Nonprofits like the Legal Aid Society and the ACLU hire for this position. They seek someone who can provide legal support and advocacy for clients.
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