How much does a General Counsel make in Chicago, IL?
General Counsels in Chicago, IL, enjoy a competitive salary. On average, they make about $191,367 per year. This means they earn a good living, and their job is quite valuable in the company. The salary can change based on many factors, including experience and the company's size.
Many General Counsels in Chicago earn between $152,327 and $284,109 each year. Those in the higher end of the range often have more years of experience or work for larger companies. These numbers show that there are many opportunities for growth and advancement in this career. General Counsels with more experience usually get higher salaries. Being in a large company also tends to mean a higher pay.
What are the highest paying cities for a General Counsel near Chicago, IL?

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Aurora, IL
Average Salary: $198,950
Aurora offers a dynamic environment for legal professionals. Companies in this area, like Caterpillar Inc. and OSI Systems, often look for skilled legal experts to provide guidance and ensure compliance with laws. Working here provides a chance to be part of well-established firms.
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Naperville, IL
Average Salary: $163,268
Naperville presents a great setting for legal careers. Many companies here, such as Take-Two Interactive and Ferguson Enterprises, depend on legal teams to handle complex matters. This city is known for its business-friendly atmosphere, offering many opportunities for growth and advancement.
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Schaumburg, IL
Average Salary: $162,842
Schaumburg is a hub for businesses that value strong legal support. Companies like Motorola Solutions and National Louis University need experienced legal professionals. Being part of this community means working alongside top-tier organizations and gaining valuable experience in a thriving business environment.
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What are the best paying companies for a General Counsel in Chicago, IL?

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Google
Average Salary: $267,750
Google offers exciting General Counsel roles in Chicago, IL. As the top tech giant, Google operates globally. The General Counsel at Google handles complex legal issues and leads a skilled team.
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LINCOLN INTERNATIONAL
Average Salary: $242,611
LINCOLN INTERNATIONAL is a leading executive search firm. They offer high-paying General Counsel jobs in Chicago, IL. The role involves advising the CEO and board of directors.
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ServiceNow
Average Salary: $222,967
ServiceNow provides cloud-based software for enterprise workflow automation. General Counsel at ServiceNow in Chicago, IL, manage legal risks and compliance for the company. They operate across many locations worldwide.
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Illapa Search
Average Salary: $218,333
Illapa Search is a talent acquisition company. They offer competitive General Counsel positions in Chicago, IL. The role includes strategic legal planning and risk management for the organization.
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Salesforce
Average Salary: $196,875
Salesforce, a global CRM leader, has excellent General Counsel jobs in Chicago, IL. General Counsels here oversee legal operations and compliance. Salesforce operates in multiple countries.
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Blue Cross Blue Shield
Average Salary: $173,803
Blue Cross Blue Shield offers rewarding General Counsel roles in Chicago, IL. This company focuses on health insurance. The General Counsel here leads legal teams and manages company policies.
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Hyatt
Average Salary: $168,250
Hyatt, a global hospitality company, provides General Counsel opportunities in Chicago, IL. The role involves handling legal issues and ensuring compliance. Hyatt operates hotels worldwide.
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Lessen
Average Salary: $142,500
Lessen, a fintech company, offers General Counsel positions in Chicago, IL. The role involves legal management and compliance. Lessen operates in several countries.
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Adtalem Global Education
Average Salary: $140,603
Adtalem Global Education has General Counsel jobs in Chicago, IL. They focus on higher education. The General Counsel here manages legal affairs and compliance for the company.
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Cushman & Wakefield
Average Salary: $137,667
Cushman & Wakefield, a real estate services company, offers General Counsel roles in Chicago, IL. They focus on legal and compliance issues. The company operates globally.
What are the best paying General Counsel related jobs in Chicago, IL?

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Risk Management Director
Average Salary: $176,158
Leads the team to identify, assess, and manage risks for a company. Works closely with executives to develop strategies. Manages teams in large corporations like Boeing and McDonald's.
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Counsel
Average Salary: $171,627
Offers legal advice to clients, ensuring they meet regulatory standards. Requires strong communication and research skills. Often found in firms such as Sidley Austin and Kirkland & Ellis.
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Real Estate Attorney
Average Salary: $163,908
Helps clients navigate real estate transactions and disputes. Requires knowledge of property laws. Common employers include Jenner & Block and Mayer Brown.
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Estate Planning Attorney
Average Salary: $151,389
Helps clients with wills, trusts, and other estate matters. Needs to understand tax laws and estate regulations. Often works at firms such as Baker Botts and Skadden Arps.
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Insurance Attorney
Average Salary: $150,792
Deals with insurance claims and disputes. Requires a deep understanding of insurance laws. Firms like Greenberg Traurig and DLA Piper often hire for these positions.
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Patent Attorney
Average Salary: $142,586
Helps clients secure patents for inventions. Requires strong technical and legal skills. Often employed by firms such as Finnegan and Fish & Richardson.
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Attorney
Average Salary: $129,917
Provides legal services in various areas. Needs strong research and writing skills. Common employers include large law firms like Latham & Watkins and Cleary Gottlieb.
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Compliance Officer
Average Salary: $129,506
Ensures the company follows all laws and regulations. Requires strong attention to detail. Often works in industries like banking and healthcare.
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Regulatory Affairs Manager
Average Salary: $124,255
Manages regulatory compliance for products, especially in healthcare. Requires strong knowledge of regulatory environments. Often found in companies like Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson.
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Defense Attorney
Average Salary: $117,515
Represents clients in criminal cases. Requires strong negotiation and courtroom skills. Often works for law firms or the public defender's office.
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