How much does a General Counsel make?
General Counsel roles offer a rewarding career path with competitive salaries. On average, General Counsel earns about $181,568 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, industry, and company size. Many General Counsel positions offer salaries that range widely, reflecting the diverse responsibilities and expertise required.
The salary distribution for General Counsel shows a broad range. The lowest 10% of earners make around $86,350 annually. The highest 10% earn over $372,500 per year. Most General Counsel fall between $138,377 and $242,432. This range highlights the potential for growth and advancement in the field. With experience, General Counsel can see significant salary increases, making it a lucrative career choice.
What are the highest paying cities for a General Counsel?
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $236,063
In San Francisco, legal professionals thrive in a dynamic tech environment. Companies like Google and Salesforce offer exciting opportunities. The city's vibrant culture and strong economy make it ideal for a successful legal career.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $225,073
Washington, DC, is a hub for political and legal activities. Working here means being close to major government agencies and law firms. The city's rich history and professional network provide a unique setting for legal experts.
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Charleston, SC
Average Salary: $220,917
Charleston offers a blend of historic charm and modern business. Legal professionals here enjoy a slower pace but with significant opportunities. The city's growing tech scene adds to its appeal for legal careers.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $214,184
San Jose is a tech powerhouse, home to many Silicon Valley giants. Legal experts here play a crucial role in navigating complex tech issues. The city's innovative spirit and strong economy make it a great place for legal careers.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $212,533
Albany, as the capital of New York, offers a unique blend of government and private sector opportunities. Legal professionals here work on impactful cases and policies. The city's rich history and community spirit add to its charm.
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Tallahassee, FL
Average Salary: $209,929
Tallahassee is known for its political significance and vibrant community. Legal professionals here are involved in state-level issues and policies. The city offers a balanced lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities.
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Baton Rouge, LA
Average Salary: $206,503
Baton Rouge offers a mix of urban and southern charm. Legal professionals here work in a variety of industries, from energy to healthcare. The city's rich culture and warm community make it a welcoming place for legal careers.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $205,504
Salt Lake City provides a unique blend of natural beauty and professional opportunities. Legal experts here work in a variety of sectors, from tech to outdoor industries. The city's strong community and outdoor activities enhance the quality of life.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $204,990
Sacramento offers a dynamic environment for legal professionals. The city is a center for government and policy, offering diverse opportunities. Sacramento's vibrant culture and affordable living make it an attractive place for legal careers.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $204,885
Los Angeles is a bustling metropolis with a diverse legal landscape. Legal professionals here work in entertainment, tech, and more. The city's vibrant culture and opportunities make it an exciting place for legal careers.
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What are the best companies a General Counsel can work for?
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KPMG
Average Salary: $534,000
KPMG offers General Counsel jobs with a focus on providing advisory services. KPMG operates globally, with major offices in New York, London, and Sydney.
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PwC
Average Salary: $309,300
PwC provides General Counsel positions that emphasize risk management and compliance. The company has a strong presence in cities like New York, London, and Hong Kong.
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Wells Fargo
Average Salary: $287,925
Wells Fargo offers General Counsel roles that focus on legal and regulatory compliance. The company operates nationwide, with headquarters in San Francisco and major offices in New York and Charlotte.
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Freddie Mac
Average Salary: $281,786
Freddie Mac provides General Counsel jobs that involve mortgage-related legal matters. The company is headquartered in McLean, Virginia, and has offices across the United States.
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Google
Average Salary: $271,800
Google offers General Counsel positions that focus on technology and privacy law. The company has a global presence, with headquarters in Mountain View, California, and offices in cities like New York, London, and Dublin.
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Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $260,876
Northrop Grumman provides General Counsel jobs with a focus on defense and aerospace law. The company operates globally, with major offices in Falls Church, Virginia, and El Segundo, California.
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Elevance Health
Average Salary: $239,607
Elevance Health offers General Counsel roles that focus on healthcare law. The company is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, and has offices across the United States.
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Clark Hill PLC
Average Salary: $212,917
Clark Hill PLC provides General Counsel jobs with a focus on litigation and regulatory compliance. The company operates in major cities like Detroit, New York, and Washington, D.C.
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Latitude
Average Salary: $211,397
Latitude offers General Counsel positions that focus on financial services law. The company has offices in New York, London, and Sydney.
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CyberCoders
Average Salary: $207,091
CyberCoders provides General Counsel jobs with a focus on technology and cybersecurity law. The company operates in major tech hubs like New York, San Francisco, and Austin.
How to earn more as a General Counsel?
Becoming a General Counsel can lead to a rewarding career with many opportunities for growth and higher earnings. To maximize your potential, consider these key factors that can help increase your salary and professional standing.
First, gaining experience in a variety of legal areas can make you more valuable. Specialization in corporate law, intellectual property, or compliance can open doors to higher-paying positions. Second, obtaining advanced degrees or certifications can boost your credentials. An LLM or a certificate in a niche area can set you apart from others. Third, networking within the legal community can lead to new job opportunities and salary negotiations. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can help you build valuable connections. Fourth, taking on leadership roles can increase your earning potential. Managing a legal team or leading major projects can demonstrate your capabilities and readiness for higher pay. Finally, staying current with industry trends and legal changes can keep you competitive. Continuous learning and adaptation are key to advancing your career.
Consider these factors to enhance your career as a General Counsel and increase your earnings. With dedication and strategic planning, you can achieve your professional goals.
- Gain experience in diverse legal areas
- Obtain advanced degrees or certifications
- Network within the legal community
- Take on leadership roles
- Stay current with industry trends
