Overview Salaries

Defense Attorney Salaries

Updated on Jul 10, 2026
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Salary

How much does a Defense Attorney make?

The average salary for a Defense Attorney is $120,303 per year in the US.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
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Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Defense Attorney positions, showing an average salary of $120,303 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Defense Attorney positions, showing an average salary of $120,303 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Defense Attorney positions, showing an average salary of $120,303 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Defense Attorney positions, showing an average salary of $120,303 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Defense attorneys work to protect the rights of those accused of crimes. They are key players in the legal system. On average, defense attorneys earn a yearly salary of around $120,303. This figure can change based on several factors.

Factors such as location, experience, and the type of cases handled can impact earnings. For instance, defense attorneys in larger cities might earn more than those in smaller towns. Experienced attorneys typically earn higher salaries compared to those who are just starting. Those who handle more complex cases might also see higher pay.

  • Entry-level defense attorneys may earn around $70,000 per year.
  • Experienced defense attorneys can earn over $250,000 annually.
  • Salaries often fall between $100,000 and $160,000 for most defense attorneys.
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What are the highest paying cities for a Defense Attorney?

Job seekers looking to become defense attorneys can find some of the best pay in major cities. San Diego, CA, offers the highest average salary at $141,345. Seattle, WA, closely follows with a salary of $140,115. These cities provide strong opportunities for legal professionals. Other top-paying cities include Stockton, CA, and Los Angeles, CA, with average salaries around $137,000. These locations are great for those seeking a lucrative career in defense law.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Defense Attorney jobs, highlighting San Diego, CA with the highest at $141,345 and Tampa, FL with the lowest at $127,778.

  1. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $141,345
    In San Diego, legal professionals work in a vibrant environment with a strong community focus. The area offers many opportunities with firms such as O'Connor, Acevedo & Reppy. The city's diverse culture and excellent weather add to the appeal.
    Find Defense Attorney jobs in San Diego, CA


  2. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $140,115
    Seattle has a thriving legal scene with a focus on environmental and technology law. Notable firms like Lane Powell and K&L Gates provide extensive experience. The city's tech-savvy atmosphere offers unique challenges and opportunities.
    Find Defense Attorney jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. Stockton, CA
    Average Salary: $137,329
    Stockton offers a close-knit legal community with a strong emphasis on local issues. Working here involves handling a variety of cases with firms like Arata, Hay & Hay. The area's charm and community spirit make it a rewarding place to practice.
    Find Defense Attorney jobs in Stockton, CA


  4. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $137,056
    Los Angeles has a dynamic legal market with a focus on entertainment and corporate law. Major firms such as Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher and O'Melveny & Myers provide many opportunities. The city's fast pace and diverse culture add to its excitement.
    Find Defense Attorney jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  5. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $136,385
    Phoenix offers a growing legal market with a mix of big-city and small-town feel. Firms like Salt River Legal and Gallagher & Kennedy offer diverse practice areas. The city's warm climate and growing economy create a vibrant environment.
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  6. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $133,645
    San Jose, at the heart of Silicon Valley, provides many tech-related legal opportunities. Working with firms like Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati offers exposure to cutting-edge cases. The area's innovative spirit is infectious.
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  7. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $132,576
    San Francisco boasts a prestigious legal community with a strong presence in tech and finance. Major firms like Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe and Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati offer top-tier experience. The city's culture and progressive outlook add to the professional environment.
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  8. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $131,833
    Washington, DC, offers a dynamic legal environment with a focus on politics and government. Working with firms such as Williams & Connolly and Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher provides unique opportunities. The city's rich history and political influence create an engaging atmosphere.
    Find Defense Attorney jobs in Washington, DC


  9. Las Vegas, NV
    Average Salary: $131,064
    Las Vegas provides a unique legal market with a blend of entertainment and real estate law. Firms like Boyd, Enos, Boyd & Norton and Davis & Gilbert offer diverse practice areas. The city's vibrant nightlife and constant growth make it an exciting place to practice.
    Find Defense Attorney jobs in Las Vegas, NV


  10. Tampa, FL
    Average Salary: $127,778
    Tampa offers a growing legal market with a mix of maritime and business law. Firms such as Holland & Knight and Shutts & Bowen provide many opportunities. The city's sunny weather and welcoming community add to the professional environment.
    Find Defense Attorney jobs in Tampa, FL

What are the best companies a Defense Attorney can work for?

Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith LLP leads the pack with the highest average salary for Defense Attorneys at $171,364. Next is The Hanover Insurance Group, offering $148,748 per year. Price Benowitz LLP also provides a competitive salary at $132,143 annually. Other notable companies include American Lawyers Group PLLC and the Office of the Attorney General. These firms provide salaries above $100,000, making them attractive options for skilled defense attorneys.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Defense Attorney jobs, highlighting Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith LLP with the highest at $171,364 and Sanabria & Associates with the lowest at $93,636.

  1. Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith LLP
    Average Salary: $171,364
    Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith LLP offers rewarding career opportunities for Defense Attorneys. They have offices in major cities such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco. This company provides a supportive environment for attorneys to thrive and excel in their careers.


  2. The Hanover Insurance Group
    Average Salary: $148,748
    The Hanover Insurance Group is a renowned employer for Defense Attorneys. Located in Hanover, Pennsylvania, the company values its employees and offers a competitive salary package. They focus on creating a collaborative and inclusive workplace.


  3. Price Benowitz LLP
    Average Salary: $132,143
    Price Benowitz LLP is recognized for its high-paying positions for Defense Attorneys. With offices in Oakland, California, this firm prioritizes employee satisfaction and offers a dynamic work environment. They support professional growth and development.


  4. American Lawyers Group PLLC
    Average Salary: $117,250
    American Lawyers Group PLLC provides excellent opportunities for Defense Attorneys. They are based in San Antonio, Texas, and are committed to excellence in legal services. This company offers a positive work culture and a strong support system.


  5. Office of the Attorney General
    Average Salary: $114,114
    The Office of the Attorney General is a key employer for Defense Attorneys. Located in various state capitals, this office provides a chance to work on significant cases and make a difference. They offer a stable and rewarding career path.


  6. Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
    Average Salary: $111,907
    The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts offers competitive salaries for Defense Attorneys. Based in Austin, Texas, this government agency values its legal professionals and provides a fulfilling work experience. They focus on efficiency and integrity.


  7. Huron Law Group
    Average Salary: $101,517
    Huron Law Group provides excellent opportunities for Defense Attorneys. With offices in Denver, Colorado, this firm is known for its collaborative environment and support for its employees. They offer a balanced work-life culture.


  8. OPS
    Average Salary: $101,364
    OPS offers rewarding positions for Defense Attorneys. They have offices in various locations across the country, providing a diverse range of legal experiences. This company focuses on providing a supportive and innovative workplace.


  9. Law Offices of the Public Defender
    Average Salary: $95,967
    Law Offices of the Public Defender provides essential legal services and opportunities for Defense Attorneys. Located in various state capitals, this office is dedicated to justice and offers a meaningful career path. They support professional growth and community service.


  10. Sanabria & Associates
    Average Salary: $93,636
    Sanabria & Associates offers valuable opportunities for Defense Attorneys. With offices in major cities, this firm focuses on providing quality legal services. They create a positive and productive work environment for their employees.

How to earn more as a Defense Attorney?

Becoming a successful Defense Attorney involves more than just a law degree. It requires dedication, strategic planning, and a keen understanding of the legal landscape. To maximize earnings, focus on specific strategies that can set you apart in this competitive field. These strategies not only enhance your skills but also increase your market value.

First, consider specializing in a niche area of law. Defense Attorneys who concentrate on criminal law, corporate defense, or intellectual property see higher earnings. Specialization allows for deeper expertise and attracts clients looking for specialists. Next, building a strong reputation through successful cases can draw more high-profile clients. Networking with other legal professionals and staying active in the community can boost your visibility. Investing in professional development through continuing education and certifications also plays a key role. These steps show commitment to the field and can lead to higher-paying opportunities. Finally, taking on pro bono work can enhance your profile and open doors to lucrative cases.

The following factors can help increase earnings for Defense Attorneys:

  1. Specialize in a niche area of law
  2. Build a strong reputation through successful cases
  3. Invest in professional development
  4. Network with other legal professionals
  5. Take on pro bono work

Currently 94 Defense Attorney job openings, nationwide.

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How's the job market for a Defense Attorney in the US?

Learn what a Defense Attorney does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Defense Attorney today.
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Defense Attorney
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