▼21%
$86,603
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$55k
MEDIAN
$87k
90%
$161k
The average salary for a Criminal Defense Lawyer is $86,603 in 2025
Base Salary
$55k - $161k
Bonus
$1k - $20k
Profit Sharing
$22 - $35k
Commission
$0 - $14
Total Pay
$55k - $192k
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Criminal Defense Lawyers?
What Do Criminal Defense Lawyers Do?
Criminal Defense Lawyer Tasks
- Present cases in court representing the local, state or federal government.
- Review reports, evidence, and conduct research.
- Question witnesses, victims or others involved in the case.
Find your market worth – how it works:
How do Criminal Defense Lawyers Rate Their Jobs?
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Common Health Benefits for a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Medical
73%
Dental
61%
Vision
51%
None
27%
Gender Breakdown for Criminal Defense Lawyers
Male
57.1%
Female
42.9%
This data is based on 42 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Criminal Defense Lawyers
What is the highest pay for Criminal Defense Lawyers?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Criminal Defense Lawyer is $161k / year
What is the lowest pay for Criminal Defense Lawyers?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Criminal Defense Lawyer is $55k / year
How can Criminal Defense Lawyers increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Criminal Defense Lawyer is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Criminal Defense Lawyer that oversees more junior Criminal Defense Lawyers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.