What Is the Salary of a Family Lawyer?

Certain areas of the law are more profitable than others. This article discusses family law and a family lawyer's salary.

Requirements

In the United States, to practice law in a state, an individual must be admitted to that state's bar. Generally, to become a member of a state bar, an individual must graduate from an American Bar Association-accredited law school and pass that state's bar exam.

Specialization

A family lawyer is a lawyer who practices family law, an area that encompasses the areas of marriage, divorce, child custody, child support and adoption. Some, but not all, state bars recognize family law as an area of specialty and maintain the certification of the board certified family lawyer.

Salary

A family lawyer's salary varies by location, firm size and experience. Generally, lawyers in major metropolitan areas earn more than lawyers in less-populated areas. Generally, lawyers at large firms earn more than lawyers in small firms. Generally, lawyers with more years of legal practice earn more than lawyers with less experience.

Examples

For example, as of May 2009, a first-year associate at a large firm (200-plus lawyers) in New York City may earn $160,000, while a first-year associate at a small firm in a secondary market may earn $45,000.

Billable Hours

Although lawyers frequently bill clients by the hour, lawyers usually are not paid hourly. Rather, most lawyers earn a salary.