How much does a Law Clerk make?
Law Clerks assist lawyers with a variety of tasks, including research, drafting documents, and preparing for trials. They often work in law firms, corporate legal departments, or government agencies. On average, Law Clerks earn about $58,326 each year. This figure shows the middle point where half of all Law Clerks make more and half make less. The salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of employer. Those with more experience often see higher pay, while those in larger cities or major law firms may earn more too.
Here are some common salaries for Law Clerks:
- The lowest 10% earn around $34,000 per year.
- The next 20% make between $41,008 and $48,016.
- The middle 30% earn between $55,024 and $62,032.
- The upper 20% make between $69,040 and $83,055.
- The top 10% earn more than $90,063 per year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Law Clerk?
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $86,250
In Washington, DC, one can work in the heart of the nation's legal hub. Many clerkships open up with federal courts and prominent firms like WilmerHale and Arnold & Porter. The city offers vibrant networking opportunities.
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Lansing, MI
Average Salary: $85,147
Lansing, MI, provides a stable environment for legal professionals. Working with state agencies and major firms like Dickinson Wright, clerks can gain diverse experience. The city balances a lower cost of living with professional growth.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $83,579
San Francisco is known for its innovative legal landscape. Clerks here often work with tech giants and progressive law firms such as Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe. The city's dynamic culture fosters creativity and professional development.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $79,188
St. Louis offers a balanced legal market with both big firms and boutique practices. Clerks here can find roles with companies like Thompson Coburn and Husch Blackwell. The cost of living is reasonable, making it a solid choice for career growth.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $77,317
Indianapolis provides a vibrant legal community with opportunities at firms like Ice Miller and Barnes & Thornburg. The city is known for its friendly atmosphere and moderate living expenses, making it ideal for career development.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $72,593
Atlanta is a growing legal hub with many opportunities at firms like King & Spalding and Holland & Knight. The city's expanding economy offers a variety of industries for clerks to explore, providing diverse career paths.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $71,098
Sacramento offers a mix of state government work and private practice. Clerks can gain valuable experience with firms like Duane Morris and Morrison & Foerster. The city’s central location provides easy access to various legal fields.
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Salem, OR
Average Salary: $70,964
Salem provides a peaceful environment with opportunities at state agencies and firms like Davis Wright Tremaine. The city is known for its natural beauty and strong community, offering a balanced lifestyle for legal professionals.
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Syracuse, NY
Average Salary: $69,010
Syracuse offers a mix of academic and practical legal experiences. Working with firms like Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman and the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office, clerks can build a solid legal foundation in a supportive community.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $68,481
Los Angeles is a bustling legal market with opportunities at firms like Latham & Watkins and Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher. The city’s diverse industries provide a dynamic environment for legal professionals to thrive.
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What are the best companies a Law Clerk can work for?
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Ford Agency
Average Salary: $139,714
Ford Agency offers competitive salaries for Law Clerk jobs. They have offices across different states. They focus on environmental law and provide diverse opportunities. Many of their Law Clerks get to work on impactful projects.
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CACI International
Average Salary: $91,726
CACI International provides excellent benefits for Law Clerks. They work in multiple locations, including major cities. The job involves extensive research and legal support. Many clerks here gain valuable experience.
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State of New Mexico
Average Salary: $73,539
The State of New Mexico offers a stable environment for Law Clerks. They operate in various locations within the state. Clerks assist with legal documentation and research. This job is ideal for those who want a balanced career.
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Minnesota Judicial Branch
Average Salary: $61,465
The Minnesota Judicial Branch provides Law Clerk opportunities in key locations across the state. They focus on case preparation and legal analysis. Clerks here work in a structured and supportive setting.
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Arizona Court of Appeals
Average Salary: $60,170
The Arizona Court of Appeals offers Law Clerk jobs in major cities. They focus on appellate court procedures. Clerks assist judges with research and case preparation. This role is great for those interested in appellate work.
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State of Montana
Average Salary: $59,936
The State of Montana provides a good environment for Law Clerks. They have offices in various cities. Clerks assist with legal research and document preparation. The job offers a mix of tasks and a stable career path.
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Colorado Judicial Branch
Average Salary: $59,765
The Colorado Judicial Branch offers Law Clerk positions in several locations. They focus on court proceedings and legal research. Clerks here gain hands-on experience in the judicial system. It is a great opportunity for those entering the legal field.
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State of Iowa
Average Salary: $58,278
The State of Iowa provides Law Clerk jobs in multiple cities. They focus on state law and legal documentation. Clerks assist with research and case preparation. This role offers stability and growth opportunities.
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Commonwealth of Kentucky
Average Salary: $51,669
The Commonwealth of Kentucky offers Law Clerk jobs in various locations. They focus on state law and legal research. Clerks assist with case preparation and documentation. The job provides a solid foundation in legal work.
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Maricopa County
Average Salary: $51,310
Maricopa County offers Law Clerk jobs in several locations. They focus on local government law. Clerks assist with research and document preparation. This role is ideal for those interested in local government work.
How to earn more as a Law Clerk?
A Law Clerk has a valuable role in the legal industry. They help lawyers prepare for cases and conduct legal research. This position provides a good foundation for future career growth. There are several ways to earn more in this role. By focusing on the right areas, a Law Clerk can increase their earnings.
First, gaining experience and building a strong reputation can lead to higher salaries. Working with well-known law firms or prestigious judges can enhance a Law Clerk's resume. This experience can open up more job opportunities and better pay. Specialization in a specific area of law, such as corporate law or criminal law, can also lead to higher earnings. Additionally, obtaining additional certifications or advanced degrees, like a master's in law, can boost a Law Clerk's earning potential. Networking with other professionals in the legal field can lead to better job offers and salary increases. Finally, taking on more responsibilities, such as managing larger cases or leading research projects, can result in higher pay.
To summarize, the following factors can help a Law Clerk earn more:
- Gaining experience and building a strong reputation
- Specializing in a specific area of law
- Obtaining additional certifications or advanced degrees
- Networking with other legal professionals
- Taking on more responsibilities
