How much does a General Counsel make in New York, NY?
A General Counsel in New York, NY, earns an average yearly salary of $212,600. This position is crucial for managing legal affairs and ensuring a company adheres to laws and regulations. Working in a bustling city like New York means General Counsels often face unique challenges and opportunities.
The salary for General Counsels can vary based on experience and industry. For example, those with less than five years of experience might earn around $133,136 per year. Experienced General Counsels, on the other hand, can make significantly more. The highest earners in this role can bring in over $400,000 annually. These higher salaries reflect the advanced skills and responsibilities required in such positions.
What are the highest paying cities for a General Counsel near New York, NY?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $238,539
San Francisco offers dynamic opportunities for legal professionals in major tech companies like Google and Salesforce. The city’s vibrant tech scene creates a challenging and rewarding environment for corporate counsel. Working here means navigating complex regulatory landscapes while being part of innovative projects.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $214,529
In Los Angeles, legal experts can find roles in entertainment giants such as Disney and Warner Bros. The city’s diverse industries provide a unique challenge for corporate lawyers. Opportunities include handling high-stakes negotiations and protecting intellectual property.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $209,984
San Jose is a hub for tech companies such as Intel and eBay, making it a prime location for legal professionals. The fast-paced environment demands adaptability and quick thinking. Counsel here play a crucial role in shaping corporate strategies and managing risks.
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Fort Worth, TX
Average Salary: $209,979
Fort Worth is home to major firms in sectors like energy and finance. Companies such as Lockheed Martin and American Airlines offer robust opportunities. Legal professionals in this city enjoy a mix of traditional practices and modern challenges, balancing industry regulations with corporate needs.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $204,956
San Diego’s biotech and defense sectors, led by companies like Genentech and Qualcomm, create a vibrant workplace for legal experts. The city’s mild climate and quality of life make it attractive for professionals. Counsel here often deal with cutting-edge technologies and regulatory compliance.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $195,364
Chicago boasts a rich legal landscape with opportunities in finance and manufacturing. Major corporations like Boeing and JPMorgan Chase provide diverse challenges. The city’s historical significance in law adds to the prestige of working here, offering a blend of tradition and modernity.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $182,908
Charlotte is a financial powerhouse, home to banks like Bank of America and Wells Fargo. Legal professionals here focus on banking regulations and corporate governance. The city’s growing tech sector adds new dimensions to the work, requiring versatile legal skills.
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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $181,830
In Columbus, the manufacturing and insurance sectors dominate, with companies like Nationwide and Huntington Bank. Legal experts here work closely with clients to manage risk and compliance. The city’s central location offers easy access to major markets, enhancing professional growth.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $181,692
Dallas offers a mix of energy, finance, and technology sectors. Major players like AT&T and ExxonMobil provide challenging roles. Legal professionals here navigate complex regulations while supporting business growth. The city’s entrepreneurial spirit creates a dynamic work environment.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $180,865
Seattle is a tech hub, with companies like Amazon and Microsoft shaping its legal landscape. Legal professionals here handle issues ranging from patents to employment law. The city’s innovative culture and natural beauty offer a unique backdrop for a rewarding legal career.
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What are the best paying companies for a General Counsel in New York, NY?

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ATR
Average Salary: $365,000
ATR is a leading firm that provides strategic counsel on regulatory and compliance matters. They operate in various sectors, including healthcare and finance. Their headquarters is in New York City, with additional offices in Washington, D.C.
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PwC
Average Salary: $310,125
PwC offers professional services in audit, assurance, consulting, and tax. Their legal team focuses on corporate governance and compliance. With offices in major cities worldwide, PwC is a global leader in their industry.
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Wells Fargo
Average Salary: $300,720
Wells Fargo is a financial services company with a strong presence in the U.S. Their General Counsel handles complex legal and regulatory issues. The company is headquartered in San Francisco, with offices throughout the country.
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Romano Law PLLC
Average Salary: $266,667
Romano Law PLLC specializes in providing legal services to businesses. They focus on corporate law, litigation, and regulatory matters. The firm is based in New York City, serving clients locally and nationally.
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Macquarie Group
Average Salary: $236,167
Macquarie Group is a global financial services company. Their General Counsel manages legal risks and regulatory compliance. They operate in various financial sectors, with headquarters in Sydney, Australia, and offices in New York.
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NYU Langone Health
Average Salary: $235,326
NYU Langone Health is a premier healthcare system. Their legal team ensures compliance with healthcare regulations and manages legal risks. Based in New York City, they provide medical services to patients across the region.
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Hospital for Special Surgery
Average Salary: $233,688
Hospital for Special Surgery specializes in orthopedics and rheumatology. Their General Counsel handles legal matters related to patient care and hospital operations. Located in New York City, they are a leader in musculoskeletal care.
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Global Atlantic Financial Group
Average Salary: $228,833
Global Atlantic Financial Group offers financial solutions, including life settlements and reinsurance. Their legal team focuses on financial regulation and compliance. The company is based in New York City, with additional offices in the U.S. and internationally.
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S&P Global
Average Salary: $228,762
S&P Global provides financial market data and analysis. Their legal team handles complex regulatory and compliance issues. With headquarters in New York City and offices worldwide, S&P Global is a leader in financial services.
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Pfizer
Average Salary: $226,007
Pfizer is a global pharmaceutical company. Their General Counsel manages legal risks and compliance related to drug development and distribution. Pfizer is headquartered in New York City, with operations in many countries.
What are the best paying General Counsel related jobs in New York, NY?

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Patent Attorney
Average Salary: $229,729
A patent attorney helps businesses protect their intellectual property. They draft, file, and prosecute patent applications. Companies like Google and Pfizer hire these professionals. They often work in offices in bustling cities.
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Estate Planning Attorney
Average Salary: $207,099
An estate planning attorney helps individuals manage their assets. They draft wills and trusts. Many attorneys in New York work with high-net-worth individuals. They ensure clients' wishes are carried out after they are gone.
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Counsel
Average Salary: $191,283
Counsel provides legal advice to organizations. They handle a range of issues from mergers to compliance. Corporations like Goldman Sachs seek their expertise. They often meet with executives to discuss legal strategies.
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Compliance Officer
Average Salary: $184,059
A compliance officer ensures companies follow laws and regulations. They monitor activities and report issues. Financial firms like JPMorgan Chase hire these professionals. They work to prevent legal problems before they happen.
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Real Estate Attorney
Average Salary: $180,355
Real estate attorneys help with property transactions. They handle deeds, contracts, and zoning laws. Many attorneys in New York City work with developers. They ensure all legal steps are followed in real estate deals.
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Risk Management Director
Average Salary: $159,079
A risk management director identifies and mitigates risks for companies. They create plans to handle potential legal issues. Companies like American International Group (AIG) hire these professionals. They aim to protect the company from financial losses.
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Insurance Attorney
Average Salary: $150,911
Insurance attorneys deal with claims and disputes. They represent clients in legal cases. Many work with insurance companies like MetLife. They help clients understand their coverage and rights.
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Regulatory Affairs Manager
Average Salary: $146,820
Regulatory affairs managers ensure companies follow laws. They work with government agencies and handle compliance. Pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer hire these professionals. They help companies stay on the right side of regulations.
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Attorney
Average Salary: $143,176
An attorney provides legal services to clients. They represent individuals or companies in court. Many attorneys in New York handle cases in various fields. They advise clients and help them navigate the legal system.
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Defense Attorney
Average Salary: $128,556
A defense attorney represents clients in criminal cases. They work to protect their clients' rights. Many attorneys in New York City handle these cases. They argue in court to ensure a fair trial for their clients.
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