Public interest lawyers earn salaries that vary depending on the type, size, and location of their employer. PILs who are employed by government agencies typically earn more than those employed by nonprofit organizations or foundations.
The National Association for Law Placement reports the following starting salaries for public interest lawyers by specialty in 2018: civil legal services, $48,000; public defenders, $58,300; and public interest organizations, $50,300. Salaries for lawyers with five years’ experience ranged from less than $54,800 to more than $68,000. Public interest lawyers with 11–15 years’ experience had earnings that ranged from less than 69,400 to 96,400 or more. PILs who are employed by government agencies typically earn more than those who work for nonprofit organizations and foundations.
Benefits for lawyers who work full time include vacation and sick time, health, and sometimes dental, insurance, and pension or 401(k) plans. Self-employed lawyers must provide their own benefits.
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