Environmental lawyers specialize in legal matters related to the environment. They work to protect the environment by ensuring that laws and regulations are adhered to and that companies and individuals are held responsible for their actions. As such, an environmental lawyer salary is generally higher than that of other lawyers, but it depends on the individual's experience, location, and the type of employer. In this article, we'll look at the average environmental lawyer salary, how to become an environmental lawyer, and the job outlook for this career.
Average Environmental Lawyer Salary
The average environmental lawyer salary is around $86,000 per year according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, this figure can vary greatly depending on the region and industry. For instance, environmental lawyers in the Northeast tend to make more than those in other parts of the country. Those working in private practice, as well as those employed by the government, can expect to make more than those employed in corporate law firms.
The BLS also found that the highest paid environmental lawyers made more than $150,000 per year, while the lowest paid earned less than $40,000. Additionally, environmental lawyers in California, New York and Massachusetts tend to make more than those in other states. Salaries also tend to be higher in metropolitan areas with higher costs of living.
How to Become an Environmental Lawyer
Becoming an environmental lawyer requires a great deal of education and dedication. The first step is to complete a bachelor's degree in law, environmental science, or a related field. After completing the degree program, applicants must then pass the bar exam in the state in which they wish to practice. This usually requires passing a written and/or oral examination.
Once the bar exam is passed, attorneys can begin their careers as environmental lawyers. It is important to note that many environmental lawyers work in private practice, while others work for the government. Additionally, some environmental lawyers choose to specialize in a certain field, such as environmental policy or environmental litigation.
Job Outlook for Environmental Lawyers
The job outlook for environmental lawyers is expected to be strong in the coming years. According to the BLS, the employment of environmental lawyers is projected to grow by 6% between 2019 and 2029. This growth is due to increasing concerns about the environment, as well as the need for more regulations and laws to protect it. Additionally, the increasing number of environmental lawsuits is expected to create more demand for lawyers in this field.
Benefits of Being an Environmental Lawyer
Environmental lawyers have the opportunity to make a real difference in the world. They can help protect the environment by ensuring that laws and regulations are followed and ensuring that companies and individuals are held responsible for their actions. Additionally, environmental lawyers can work in a variety of areas, such as policy, litigation, and advocacy. Finally, environmental lawyers can work in both the public and private sectors, offering a great deal of flexibility.
Conclusion
The average environmental lawyer salary is around $86,000 per year. Salaries can vary greatly depending on the region and type of employer. Becoming an environmental lawyer requires a great deal of education and dedication, as well as passing the bar exam in the state in which they wish to practice. The job outlook for environmental lawyers is expected to be strong in the coming years, due to increasing concerns about the environment and the need for more regulations and laws. Finally, environmental lawyers have the opportunity to make a real difference in the world by protecting the environment.
