How much does a Law Clerk make?
Law clerks often start their careers with a solid salary. They can earn between $35,000 and $42,800 a year. This range shows that new law clerks can expect to be paid fairly well. As they gain more experience, their salaries can grow. Many law clerks see their earnings increase to between $50,610 and $58,416 after a few years.
Experienced law clerks can earn even more. Those with several years of experience might see their salaries rise to between $66,221 and $74,026. The highest earners in this field can make over $100,000 a year. The average yearly salary for law clerks is around $59,425. This average reflects the wide range of salaries based on experience and location.
What are the highest paying cities for a Law Clerk?
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Lansing, MI
Average Salary: $84,506
In Lansing, working as a legal professional offers a mix of state government and private sector opportunities. Many clerks find roles in law firms and government agencies, providing a solid foundation for career growth. The city's vibrant community and lower cost of living make it an attractive place for those starting out.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $83,393
Washington, DC, is a hub for legal work, with numerous federal agencies and law firms. Clerks here often gain valuable experience and networking opportunities. The city's political environment offers unique insights into the legal landscape. The competitive salary helps balance the higher living costs.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $78,014
San Francisco presents a dynamic environment for legal clerks. The tech industry's growth means many clerks work with innovative companies. The city's diverse legal landscape offers varied experiences. While the cost of living is high, the salary reflects the competitive market.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $75,613
Indianapolis offers a balanced approach to legal work, with a mix of corporate and government opportunities. Clerks in this city benefit from a lower cost of living and a friendly community. The city's growing economy provides a stable environment for career development.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $73,273
St. Louis provides a mix of urban and suburban legal opportunities. Clerks here often work in a variety of settings, from large firms to government offices. The city's affordable living costs and rich cultural scene make it an appealing place to work and live.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $72,817
Atlanta's legal market is thriving, with a focus on corporate law and government roles. Clerks in this city enjoy a mix of big-city opportunities and a more relaxed lifestyle. The growing economy and diverse job market offer good prospects for career advancement.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $71,684
Seattle offers a unique blend of legal work in tech and environmental law. Clerks here often find themselves in innovative companies. The city's progressive environment and high cost of living are balanced by the competitive salary and vibrant community.
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Rochester, NY
Average Salary: $71,364
Rochester provides a mix of legal opportunities in healthcare and corporate law. Clerks benefit from a lower cost of living and a strong community. The city's rich history and cultural attractions make it a pleasant place to work and live.
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New Orleans, LA
Average Salary: $69,156
New Orleans offers a vibrant legal scene with a mix of local and national firms. Clerks here enjoy a unique cultural environment and a lower cost of living. The city's rich history and lively atmosphere provide a distinctive backdrop for legal work.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $68,597
Sacramento provides a mix of government and private sector legal opportunities. Clerks here often work in a variety of settings, from state agencies to law firms. The city's affordable living costs and growing economy make it an attractive place for legal professionals.
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What are the best companies a Law Clerk can work for?
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Ford Agency
Average Salary: $148,000
Ford Agency offers competitive salaries for Law Clerk jobs. They provide opportunities for clerks to work in various locations, including their headquarters in Washington, D.C. and other offices across the country.
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CACI International
Average Salary: $85,131
CACI International provides a solid salary for Law Clerks. They operate in several locations, including Arlington, Virginia, and other sites across the United States. Clerks here gain valuable experience in a dynamic environment.
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Amentum
Average Salary: $76,059
Amentum offers a good salary for Law Clerks. They have offices in many locations, including Reston, Virginia, and other sites nationwide. Clerks here work in a supportive and professional setting.
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State of New Mexico
Average Salary: $73,581
The State of New Mexico offers a competitive salary for Law Clerks. They operate in various locations, including their capital in Santa Fe, and other sites across the state. Clerks here contribute to important legal work.
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Minnesota Judicial Branch
Average Salary: $62,632
The Minnesota Judicial Branch provides a fair salary for Law Clerks. They have offices in several locations, including Saint Paul, the state capital. Clerks here play a key role in the state's legal system.
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Arizona Court of Appeals
Average Salary: $60,170
The Arizona Court of Appeals offers a solid salary for Law Clerks. They operate in various locations, including Phoenix, the state capital. Clerks here assist in important legal proceedings.
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State of Montana
Average Salary: $59,492
The State of Montana offers a good salary for Law Clerks. They have offices in several locations, including Helena, the state capital. Clerks here support the state's legal framework.
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Colorado Judicial Branch
Average Salary: $59,298
The Colorado Judicial Branch provides a fair salary for Law Clerks. They operate in various locations, including Denver, the state capital. Clerks here contribute to the legal system in Colorado.
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State of Iowa
Average Salary: $56,586
The State of Iowa offers a competitive salary for Law Clerks. They have offices in several locations, including Des Moines, the state capital. Clerks here are vital to the state's legal operations.
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Maricopa County
Average Salary: $51,481
Maricopa County provides a fair salary for Law Clerks. They operate in various locations, including Phoenix, Arizona. Clerks here assist in the county's legal processes.
How to earn more as a Law Clerk?
A Law Clerk can find several ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on key areas, a Law Clerk can enhance their value and potentially earn more. One important factor is gaining experience in specialized areas of law. This could include corporate law, intellectual property, or family law. Specialization often leads to higher pay.
Another way to earn more is by improving skills in legal research and writing. These skills are highly valued in the legal field. A Law Clerk who excels in these areas can take on more complex tasks and may be offered higher compensation. Networking with other legal professionals can also lead to better job opportunities. Attending legal conferences and joining professional organizations can open doors to higher-paying positions. Finally, pursuing additional certifications or a master's degree in law can make a Law Clerk more attractive to employers. These qualifications can lead to higher salaries and more responsibilities.
Consider these factors to increase earnings as a Law Clerk:
- Gain experience in specialized areas of law.
- Improve skills in legal research and writing.
- Network with other legal professionals.
- Pursue additional certifications or a master's degree.
