GraduateSmart
GraduateSmart
Advise and represent clients in court, before government agencies, and in private legal matters.
$72,780
Lower reported wage
$151,160
Median
$239,200+
Upper reported wage
Annual U.S. salaries. Actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience. The lower and upper figures do not represent starting and senior salaries.
The + marks a legacy BLS reporting threshold: the upper wage is at least $239,200, not an exact maximum.

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Create free account →A state law license is required to practice; bar admission rules differ by jurisdiction. [1]
Search CareerOneStop by occupation and state, then confirm the rules with the issuing agency. Coverage is incomplete; an empty result does not mean no license is required.
About license data coverageAsk whether any internship, field placement, or supervised training in your chosen route is paid; arrangements vary.
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$1,703
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3 credits · Political Science
$1,703
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3 credits · Sociology
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U.S. career guide. Program, employer, and state requirements can differ.
Direct match. Median $151,160. 863,700 jobs. 90th percentile top-coded $239,200.
Illustration: AI-generated image · Illustrative scene
Compare tuition after aid, required supplies and exams, travel, and any unpaid training time for the route you choose.
Planning questions: request a written estimate from each program or sponsor. A total cost has not been verified here.
A related major can be preparation; it does not by itself qualify you for the career.
Research law, advise clients, prepare documents, and represent people or organizations in legal matters. [1]
Lawyers work in firms, government, and organizations, usually in offices with court or client work. [1]
Most work full time; cases and deadlines may require more than 40 hours a week. [1]
High-stakes decisions, detailed writing, client needs, and deadlines require careful judgment. [1]
Experience may lead to specialization, senior responsibility, partnership, or leadership, depending on employer. [1]
These are possible directions. Promotion timing and pay depend on the role and employer.