How much does a Staff Attorney make?
A Staff Attorney is a key role in legal departments, both in private firms and public agencies. This position involves providing legal advice, conducting research, and preparing documents. The salary for a Staff Attorney can vary. It depends on factors like experience, location, and the size of the organization.
For those just starting, the salary can be around $54,000 per year. As attorneys gain experience, the salary increases. At the mid-range, Staff Attorneys earn about $85,000 to $116,000 a year. Those with more experience can earn over $130,000 annually. The highest earners, often with years of experience and specialized skills, can make upwards of $225,000 per year. The average yearly salary for a Staff Attorney is about $103,524.
What are the highest paying cities for a Staff Attorney?
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $147,432
In San Jose, legal professionals benefit from a thriving tech industry. Many attorneys find work with major companies like Google and Cisco. The dynamic environment offers plenty of opportunities for growth.
Find Staff Attorney jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $139,028
Memphis provides a vibrant community for legal experts. Working here means collaborating with prominent firms such as Stites & Harbison PLLC. The city's rich history adds to its unique charm, making it an attractive place to build a career.
Find Staff Attorney jobs in Memphis, TN
-
Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $137,416
Las Vegas offers an exciting atmosphere for legal professionals. Attorneys here often work with large firms like Greenberg Traurig. The fast-paced environment ensures that work remains dynamic and engaging.
Find Staff Attorney jobs in Las Vegas, NV
-
Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $130,219
Colorado Springs is home to many opportunities for attorneys. With firms like Holland & Hart LLP, professionals can work on a variety of cases. The picturesque surroundings make it a pleasant place to live and work.
Find Staff Attorney jobs in Colorado Springs, CO
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $127,682
San Francisco presents a bustling environment for legal work. Many attorneys find roles with big names like Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe. The city's progressive culture offers many enriching experiences.
Find Staff Attorney jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $125,565
Los Angeles is a hub for legal talent. Attorneys can find positions with major firms such as Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher. The city's diverse population adds to the richness of the work experience.
Find Staff Attorney jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
New Haven, CT
Average Salary: $125,548
New Haven offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Legal professionals often work with reputable firms like Shipman & Goodwin. The city's academic environment creates a stimulating work atmosphere.
Find Staff Attorney jobs in New Haven, CT
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $124,978
Seattle provides a vibrant setting for legal careers. Attorneys can find work with companies like Davis Wright Tremaine. The city's innovative spirit makes it an exciting place to build a career.
Find Staff Attorney jobs in Seattle, WA
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $124,350
San Diego offers a pleasant environment for legal professionals. Many attorneys work with firms like Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith. The city's beautiful beaches and mild climate add to its appeal.
Find Staff Attorney jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Portland, OR
Average Salary: $123,920
Portland is known for its progressive values and creative spirit. Attorneys often work with firms like Stoel Rives. The city's commitment to sustainability and community makes it a rewarding place to practice law.
Find Staff Attorney jobs in Portland, OR
What are the best companies a Staff Attorney can work for?
-
FedEx
Average Salary: $190,952
FedEx offers Staff Attorney roles with a strong focus on corporate compliance and risk management. They have numerous locations worldwide, providing diverse experiences for their legal professionals.
-
Con Edison
Average Salary: $177,273
Con Edison provides opportunities for Staff Attorneys to work in utility law and regulatory affairs. They operate in New York, providing extensive experience in state-specific legal issues.
-
Kahana & Feld LLP
Average Salary: $175,781
At Kahana & Feld LLP, Staff Attorneys handle complex litigation and client advocacy. This firm operates in New York City, offering deep immersion in high-stakes legal environments.
-
Earthjustice
Average Salary: $164,702
Earthjustice focuses on environmental law, offering Staff Attorneys the chance to impact public policy. They have offices in multiple U.S. cities, providing a broad spectrum of environmental law experience.
-
Robert Half
Average Salary: $155,583
Robert Half provides various Staff Attorney positions across different sectors. They operate globally, offering flexibility and diverse legal challenges in multiple industries.
-
The Hartford
Average Salary: $155,233
The Hartford offers roles for Staff Attorneys specializing in insurance law and compliance. They have offices across the U.S., providing broad exposure to the insurance industry.
-
Lois Law Firm, LLC
Average Salary: $147,500
Lois Law Firm, LLC, provides opportunities in labor and employment law. They operate in Illinois, offering focused legal practice in a specific market.
-
American Civil Liberties Union
Average Salary: $136,015
The American Civil Liberties Union offers roles advocating for civil rights and liberties. They have numerous offices across the U.S., providing extensive experience in public interest law.
-
Adams & Martin Group
Average Salary: $133,633
Adams & Martin Group provides opportunities in construction and real estate law. They operate in multiple states, offering diverse legal challenges in these sectors.
-
US Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys and the Office of the U.S. Attorneys
Average Salary: $132,467
This organization offers roles in federal prosecution and legal affairs. They have offices across the U.S., providing extensive experience in federal law enforcement and litigation.
How to earn more as a Staff Attorney?
A Staff Attorney can increase their earnings through several strategic actions. By taking on more complex cases, they can often command higher fees. This approach requires a strong understanding of the law and the ability to handle intricate legal matters.
Another effective strategy is to specialize in a niche area of law, such as intellectual property or environmental law. Specialization can make a Staff Attorney more valuable to clients and command higher pay. Additionally, attending advanced training and obtaining certifications can improve a Staff Attorney's skills and marketability.
Consider these factors to boost earnings:
- Case Complexity: Handle more complex cases for higher fees.
- Specialization: Focus on a niche area to become more valuable.
- Advanced Training: Attend courses and obtain certifications to improve skills.
- Networking: Build strong relationships with clients and other legal professionals.
- Experience: Gain more experience to command higher pay.
