How much does a Defense Attorney make in New York, NY?
A Defense Attorney in New York, NY can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for this role in the area stands at around $129,161. This income level reflects the challenging nature of the job and the importance of legal representation in the region.
The salary range for Defense Attorneys in New York City varies. The lowest reported salary is about $82,500, while the highest can reach up to $177,500. This variance depends on several factors, including experience, the specific employer, and the complexity of cases handled. Attorneys often start on the lower end of the scale and can see their salaries increase with more experience and higher-profile cases.
What are the highest paying cities for a Defense Attorney near New York, NY?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $141,766
Working as a defense attorney in Seattle provides a chance to represent clients in a vibrant and progressive city. Seattle's legal system values skilled advocates, offering opportunities in law firms and public defender offices. Notable firms include Lane Powell and Perkins Coie.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $136,149
In San Diego, defense attorneys find a mix of military and maritime cases. The city's unique setting brings specialized legal needs. Opportunities abound in both private practice and government roles. Firms like O’Melveny & Myers and Archer & Greiner are prominent.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $132,797
San Francisco offers a dynamic legal environment with a mix of high-profile cases and community defense work. The city's tech industry and diverse population create a rich field for defense attorneys. Established firms include Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe and Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $131,856
In Phoenix, defense attorneys benefit from a growing legal market with diverse case types. The city’s expanding population and business sector offer ample opportunities. Notable firms include Gallagher & Kennedy and Best, Best & Krieger.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $130,958
Los Angeles provides a bustling legal environment with high-profile cases and a large caseload. The city’s entertainment industry and diverse communities require skilled advocates. Firms like Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher and Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton are well-known.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $126,071
San Antonio offers a strong legal market with a mix of federal and state cases. The city's growth creates opportunities in both private and public sectors. Prominent firms include Locke Lord and Strasburger & Price.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $125,766
San Jose is a hub for tech-related legal matters, offering unique challenges for defense attorneys. The city’s innovation-driven economy requires specialized legal expertise. Firms like Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati and Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe are key players.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $123,748
Chicago’s legal scene is rich with high-stakes cases and diverse clientele. The city’s robust legal history and large population provide many opportunities. Notable firms include Kirkland & Ellis and Jenner & Block.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $118,323
Philadelphia offers a rich legal history and diverse case types. The city’s historic significance and urban environment create unique legal challenges. Prominent firms include Morgan, Lewis & Bockius and Blank Rome.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $112,220
In Houston, defense attorneys deal with a mix of energy, oil, and high-profile criminal cases. The city’s growth and business sector offer many opportunities. Notable firms include Andrews Kurth and Baker Botts.
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What are the best paying companies for a Defense Attorney in New York, NY?

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Wilson Elser
Average Salary: $146,667
Wilson Elser offers exciting opportunities for Defense Attorneys in New York. The company provides a dynamic environment and works with clients across multiple locations, including New York, NY. They focus on delivering high-quality legal services and value the skills of their attorneys.
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gpac
Average Salary: $130,625
gpac presents strong opportunities for Defense Attorneys in New York. They operate in various locations across New York, NY. At gpac, attorneys enjoy a supportive atmosphere and the chance to take on challenging cases. The company emphasizes professional growth and provides a competitive salary.
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The Legal Aid Society
Average Salary: $120,062
The Legal Aid Society provides meaningful roles for Defense Attorneys in New York. They serve clients across multiple locations in New York, NY. This organization offers a chance to make a difference in the community while working in a supportive environment. Defense Attorneys here find rewarding experiences and a commitment to justice.
What are the best paying Defense Attorney related jobs in New York, NY?

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Patent Attorney
Average Salary: $229,729
This role involves protecting intellectual property, a crucial part of innovation. They work with inventors to secure patents. Companies like Google and Pfizer in New York City are known for this specialty.
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General Counsel
Average Salary: $216,938
General Counsel gives legal advice to an organization. They handle complex legal matters. Firms such as JPMorgan Chase and Goldman Sachs in New York City often have this position.
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Estate Planning Attorney
Average Salary: $205,676
These attorneys help clients manage their assets. They ensure that the clients' wishes are respected. Wealth management firms like Morgan Stanley in New York City often need this expertise.
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Counsel
Average Salary: $193,257
Counsel provides legal advice to organizations. They deal with contracts and compliance. Major banks like Citibank and American Express in New York City hire counsel.
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Real Estate Attorney
Average Salary: $182,471
They handle property law and transactions. They help clients buy, sell, and manage property. Companies like New York Life Insurance and Con Edison in New York City need this service.
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Insurance Attorney
Average Salary: $149,850
They handle cases involving insurance claims. They work to ensure clients get fair compensation. Insurance giants like MetLife and AIG in New York City rely on these attorneys.
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Attorney
Average Salary: $144,169
An attorney represents clients in court. They prepare cases and offer legal advice. Many law firms and corporations in New York City look for skilled attorneys.
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Staff Attorney
Average Salary: $127,987
They assist senior attorneys with case preparation. They conduct research and help with legal documents. Nonprofits and legal aid organizations in New York City often hire staff attorneys.
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Civil Rights Attorney
Average Salary: $122,538
They fight for people's rights. They handle cases that involve discrimination and inequality. Advocacy groups like the ACLU in New York City need civil rights attorneys.
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Legal Clerk
Average Salary: $120,908
They assist attorneys with legal documents. They manage files and help with research. Law firms in New York City often employ legal clerks to support their work.
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