▼17%
$84,230
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$56k
MEDIAN
$84k
90%
$120k
The average salary for a Criminal Defense Lawyer is $84,230 in 2025
Base Salary
$56k - $120k
Bonus
$28 - $11k
Profit Sharing
$2k - $49k
Total Pay
$57k - $235k
Is Average Criminal Defense Lawyer with Public Speaking Skills Salary your job title? Find out what you should be paid
Use our tool to get a personalized report on your market worth.What's this?
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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:
Common Health Benefits for a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Medical
63%
Dental
42%
Vision
37%
None
37%
Gender Breakdown for Criminal Defense Lawyers
Male
52.9%
Female
47.1%
This data is based on 17 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 $120k / year
What is the lowest pay for Criminal Defense Lawyers?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Criminal Defense Lawyer is $56k / 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.