How to become lawyerseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
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
How to become lawyers
Typical education
Doctoral or professional degree
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
None
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
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)
Career path and how to earn more as lawyers
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
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.