Attorney
Advocate For Others
High-Impact Decision-Making
Intellectual Challenge
Undergraduate
Graduate
Post-Graduate
Juris Doctor
This is the educational pathway. There may be additional tests or licensure requirements necessary before begining to practice in the field. Consult your state guidelines for more. information.
Career Reality
Average Salary
The median annual wage for lawyers in the United States was $151,160 in May 2024. Earnings ranged from under $72,720 to over $239,200, depending on experience and role.
Job Market Demand
Employment of lawyers is projected to grow about 4 % from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations, with approximately 31,500 openings per year on average over the decade.
Work Environment
Attorneys typically work in office settings, often full time, with structured schedules that may include longer hours during case preparation, negotiations, trials, or document deadlines.
Common Employers
Attorneys work for law firms of all sizes, corporate legal departments, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and may operate private practices.
Career Advancement
Attorneys can advance from associate to senior, partner, in-house counsel, chief legal officer, or specialized practice roles, with career growth tied to experience, credentials, and area of focus.
Popular Titles
Core Areas of Impact
Is this career right for you?
What is the role of an attorney?
An attorney represents clients in legal matters by advising on the law, preparing legal documents, negotiating agreements, and advocating in court or formal proceedings.
What does a typical day look like?
A typical day includes reviewing cases or contracts, researching laws and precedents, drafting legal documents, meeting with clients, and communicating with courts, opposing counsel, or regulatory bodies.
Where do attorneys work?
Attorneys work in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private practices. Some specialize in court-based work, while others focus on advisory or transactional roles.
What are the common job titles and career paths?
Common titles include Attorney, Associate Attorney, Litigation Attorney, Corporate Attorney, Public Defender, Assistant District Attorney, In-House Counsel, and Partner. Career paths often progress from associate roles to senior, partner, or executive legal positions.
Who is this career a good fit for?
This career suits individuals who are strong readers and writers, comfortable with complex rules, able to argue positions clearly, and willing to take responsibility for high-stakes outcomes.
What are the biggest rewards of this career?
Key rewards include meaningful client advocacy, intellectual challenge, professional authority, and the ability to produce legally binding outcomes that affect real situations.
What does long-term growth look like?
Long-term growth includes specialization in a practice area, advancement to leadership or partnership roles, higher compensation, and opportunities to move into corporate, public service, or independent practice roles.
