Types of Lawyers
The lawyers who make the most money overall are corporate lawyers in large law firms. This type of lawyer typically assists their clients with matters related to their businesses. While many corporate lawyers make very high salaries, their hourly rate is typically not as much as other types of lawyers.
Criminal lawyers, on the other hand, can make a very good hourly rate. Depending on the type of criminal lawyer and the amount of experience they have, they may make anywhere from $100-$400 per hour.
Average Hourly Rates
According to PayScale, the median hourly rate for a criminal lawyer is $87. This rate can increase depending on the scope of the case, the experience of the lawyer, and the type of crime. According to ZipRecruiter, criminal lawyers in the United States make an average of $116 per hour.
The most a criminal lawyer can make an hour is likely dependent on the lawyer’s skill, experience, and location. Many high-profile lawyers may make significantly more than the average hourly rate for a criminal lawyer. In addition, lawyers in high-paying cities may also make more than lawyers in other areas.
Highest-Paying Areas
Criminal lawyers in large cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York City typically make the highest hourly rates. In addition, criminal lawyers in areas with a higher cost of living and more expensive legal services may make more than criminal lawyers in other areas. For example, lawyers in San Francisco may make over $200 per hour on average, while lawyers in smaller cities may make less than $100 per hour.