Becoming an attorney (also called a lawyer) in the United States is a challenging but rewarding path that opens doors to a respected profession with strong earning potential. With over 1.3 million lawyers practicing nationwide, the field offers diverse opportunities in areas like criminal law, corporate deals, family matters, and civil rights. As of 2025, the median annual salary for lawyers stands at $145,760, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, though averages range from $100,000 to over $200,000 depending on experience, location, and specialization. If you’re wondering “how to earn” as an attorney in America—or how much you can make—this guide covers the step-by-step process to become one, plus a breakdown of salaries and factors that influence pay. It’s a journey that typically takes seven years after high school, but the financial and professional payoff can be substantial.
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree (4 Years)
The first hurdle is completing a four-year undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university. No specific major is required, but fields like political science, history, philosophy, English, or economics build essential skills in critical thinking, writing, and analysis—core to legal work. Aim for a strong GPA (at least 3.5) to boost your law school applications. During this time, gain practical experience through internships at law firms, government agencies, or nonprofits. Networking early—via pre-law societies or alumni events—can lead to mentorships and recommendations. Tuition varies, but expect $10,000–$50,000 per year at public vs. private schools.
Step 2: Take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) or GRE
To apply to law school, you’ll need a competitive score on the LSAT, a half-day exam testing reading comprehension, logical reasoning, and analytical skills (scores range from 120–180; top schools want 170+). Some schools now accept the GRE as an alternative. Prep takes 3–6 months using free resources like Khan Academy or paid courses from Kaplan or Powerscore. A high score is crucial, as it’s a key factor in admissions alongside your GPA and personal statement.
Step 3: Graduate from Law School (3 Years)
Enroll in a Juris Doctor (J.D.) program at an American Bar Association (ABA)-accredited law school. This full-time, three-year grind covers foundational courses like contracts, torts, constitutional law, and civil procedure. Top schools like Harvard, Yale, or Stanford offer prestige and networks, but state schools like the University of Texas or UC Berkeley provide solid value. Expect $40,000–$70,000 annual tuition; many students finance via loans, with public service loan forgiveness available for nonprofit work. Hands-on experience comes from clinics, moot court competitions, and summer associate positions at firms—pivotal for job offers.
Alternative paths exist in a few states (e.g., California, Virginia, Vermont, Washington) where you can “read the law” through apprenticeships under licensed attorneys, skipping traditional law school but still needing to pass the bar. However, this route is rare and demanding.
Step 4: Pass the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE)
Before or during law school, take this two-hour ethics exam on professional conduct. A score of 85+ is required in most states. It’s offered multiple times a year; study with ABA outlines or online prep.
Step 5: Pass the Bar Exam
The final gatekeeper: your state’s bar exam, typically a two- to three-day test. Most states use the Uniform Bar Exam (UBE), including the Multistate Bar Examination (MBE) on general law, essays (MEE), and performance tests (MPT). Passing scores vary (e.g., 266/400 for New York). First-time pass rates are around 70–80%, but bar prep courses like Barbri (costing $2,000–$4,000) are essential. After passing, undergo a character and fitness review, including background checks and references.
Some states add extras, like New York’s online course on state law. International lawyers may need extra evaluations. Once licensed, maintain your status with continuing legal education (CLE) credits.
Step 6: Launch Your Career and Specialize
With your license, start as an associate at a firm, in-house counsel, public defender, or prosecutor. Pro bono work (often 50 hours required for admission) builds skills and ethics. Specialize early—corporate, IP, family, or criminal law—to boost earnings. Advancement comes via partnerships, clerkships with judges, or solo practice.
The whole process costs $150,000–$250,000 (mostly loans), but many recoup it quickly through salaries.
How Much Can You Earn as an Attorney in America?
Yes, you can earn well as an attorney in America—the profession’s earning power is one of its biggest draws. Salaries vary widely, but here’s a 2025 snapshot:
- National Average/Median: $145,760 (BLS median); Glassdoor reports $198,000–$214,000 total pay (including bonuses). Entry-level: $76,000–$101,000 base, up to $138,000 with bonuses.
- By Experience:
- 0–1 year: $76,000–$100,000
- 1–4 years: $90,000–$150,000
- 5+ years/Partner: $200,000–$363,000+
- By Specialization (2025 Averages): SpecializationAverage SalaryCorporate Law$160,000–$210,000Intellectual Property$150,000–$250,000Criminal Defense$100,000–$180,000Family Law$95,000–$140,000Public Interest/Government$70,000–$120,000
- By Location (Top States, 2025): StateAverage SalaryCalifornia$180,000+New York$170,000–$200,000District of Columbia$190,000Texas$140,000Florida$130,000
Big Law firms in NYC or San Francisco pay first-year associates $200,000+, but expect 2,000+ billable hours annually. Bonuses, contingency fees (e.g., 30–40% of settlements), and equity in firms add up. Job growth is 8% through 2032, with 46,000 openings yearly.
Factors boosting pay: Big firms, urban areas, tech/corporate niches, and advanced certifications. Drawbacks include student debt and burnout, but 87% of lawyers report job satisfaction.
Challenges and Tips for Success
The road is tough—high competition, stress, and costs—but resilience pays off. Tips: Network relentlessly, specialize in growing fields like cybersecurity or ESG law, and balance with wellness. Diverse backgrounds are increasingly valued; women and minorities now make up 50%+ of law students.
In summary, becoming an attorney in America demands grit, but with median earnings over $145,000 and paths to seven figures, it’s a smart investment. Start with a strong undergrad foundation, ace the LSAT, and commit to the bar. If you’re passionate about justice and advocacy, the rewards—financial and otherwise—are immense.