Will AI replace lawyers?AI replacement risk 67% and how the work is changing
Median annual pay
$159,670
25th–75th pct. $102,990–$221,370
Top pay (est.)
$457,100
Top 10% $351,600
Pay in 5 years
$180,900est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$204,900est.
$176,200–$237,900
Outlook score
55/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
67%
High
Job growth (10 yr)
+4.7%
29K openings / yr
Will AI replace Lawyers? AI replacement risk
67%
High
Ranked #719 safest from AI among all U.S. occupations
Very lowLowModerateHighVery high
How AI is changing this job
A written analysis for this occupation is being prepared.
AI replacement risk compares the parts of a job that are easy to hand to AI or software (processing information, documentation, repetitive computer work) with the parts that are hard to automate (physical work, working closely with people, judgment in unpredictable settings), using O*NET work activities, work context, skills and knowledge. The result is a relative position among all occupations in the country, scaled to 0–100%. Methodology →
Skills, education and requirements for Lawyers
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Making Decisions and Solving ProblemsResolving Conflicts and Negotiating with OthersEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsGetting InformationEvaluating Information to Determine Compliance with StandardsProviding Consultation and Advice to OthersUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
Important abilities
Oral ExpressionOral ComprehensionWritten ExpressionWritten ComprehensionSpeech ClarityNear Vision
Education of workers
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 5 — extensive preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★★★☆ Demanding (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.