Attorney Salary in San Diego, CA

In San Diego, CA, the salary for an attorney can vary widely based on experience, specialization, and the type of firm or organization they work for. On average, attorneys in this city earn about $140,562 a year. This amount reflects a good balance of the many factors that influence salary levels.

Entry-level attorneys can expect to earn around $78,000, while those with more experience and specialized skills can make significantly more. For example, salaries can reach $252,500 for highly experienced lawyers in top positions. Many attorneys find rewarding careers that not only offer competitive pay but also provide personal growth and satisfaction in their work.

The salary distribution shows that most attorneys earn between $100,000 and $150,000. A sizable portion of professionals in the field earns around $125,591 to $157,318, indicating a strong market for skilled legal professionals. As you consider a career in law, remember that the potential for growth in salary and responsibility can be substantial. San Diego’s legal landscape remains vibrant and offers many opportunities for dedicated and hardworking attorneys.

1. La Jolla, CA
   Average Salary: $127,740
   Working in La Jolla offers a unique opportunity to be part of a vibrant legal community. The area is known for its upscale lifestyle and beautiful coastline, attracting high-profile clients. Well-respected firms, such as Seltzer Caplan McMahon Vitek, provide a collaborative environment for legal professionals.
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2. Poway, CA
   Average Salary: $122,000
   Professionals in Poway benefit from a close-knit community and diverse legal needs. The city features a mix of small businesses and corporate clients, allowing for a broad range of cases. Legal professionals can enjoy a balanced life while contributing positively to the local economy.
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3. Solana Beach, CA
   Average Salary: $121,750
   Solana Beach serves as a picturesque backdrop for legal professionals, combining work with stunning ocean views. The local practice tends to focus on real estate, family law, and environmental issues, given the city’s unique coastal challenges. Networking with local firms can lead to rewarding career opportunities.
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4. La Mesa, CA
   Average Salary: $116,146
   La Mesa offers a diverse legal landscape with opportunities in family law, criminal defense, and civil litigation. The city boasts an active community, making it an ideal place for attorneys to connect with clients and colleagues. Working here allows attorneys to make a real difference in people's lives.
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1. Clark Hill PLC
   Average Salary: $240,000
   Clark Hill PLC offers opportunities for attorneys in various fields of law. They have a strong presence in San Diego, focusing on providing legal services to commercial clients. Attorneys here enjoy a supportive environment and ample chances for growth.
   




2. Jettison
   Average Salary: $230,000
   Jettison specializes in innovative legal solutions and provides a dynamic workplace for attorneys. Located in San Diego, they focus on modern challenges in legal practice. The company values creative thinking and encourages professional development.
   




3. Illapa Search
   Average Salary: $229,375
   Illapa Search is known for its strong attorney recruitment and staffing capabilities. Their San Diego office seeks talented legal professionals who thrive on matching the right candidates with the right firms. They foster a collaborative atmosphere.
   




4. Jackson Lewis
   Average Salary: $205,800
   Jackson Lewis is a premier workplace law firm in San Diego. Attorneys here handle various labor and employment law cases. The firm emphasizes diversity and inclusion, creating a welcoming workplace for all legal professionals.
   




5. iLocatum
   Average Salary: $193,125
   iLocatum focuses on providing legal tech solutions, blending law and technology. They have a location in San Diego and attract attorneys with a passion for innovation in the legal field. Attorneys play a key role in shaping new legal services.
   




6. Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP
   Average Salary: $188,500
   Nelson Mullins offers attorneys a wide range of practice areas in their San Diego office. The firm is dedicated to client service and professional advancement for its attorneys. They enjoy a healthy work-life balance while serving diverse clients.
   




7. Antonyan Miranda LLP
   Average Salary: $176,950
   Antonyan Miranda LLP is a fast-paced litigation firm in San Diego. Attorneys work on exciting cases with the opportunity to build strong client relationships. The firm promotes a supportive culture encouraging continuous learning.
   




8. McNamara Smith LLP
   Average Salary: $174,763
   McNamara Smith LLP is a smaller firm that values quality over quantity. Located in San Diego, they focus on complex litigation. Attorneys here gain hands-on experience and play a vital role in case strategy.
   




9. Marble
   Average Salary: $172,500
   Marble operates in San Diego and specializes in specific areas of law, creating opportunities for attorneys to excel in their preferred practice areas. The firm's commitment to innovative solutions attracts talent and fosters a rich learning environment.
   




10. Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani, LLP
    Average Salary: $172,500
    Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani, LLP has a strong presence in San Diego, offering attorneys the chance to work on a diverse range of cases. The firm values collaboration and encourages attorneys to contribute to the firm's successes.
    

1. Legal Department Manager
   Average Salary: $194,350
   In this role, you will oversee a company's legal team, guiding various legal processes. You will ensure compliance and help manage legal risks. Companies like Qualcomm and Scripps Health seek skilled professionals to lead their legal departments.
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2. General Counsel
   Average Salary: $183,191
   This position involves serving as the chief lawyer for an organization, handling complex legal matters. You will provide strategic advice to executives and ensure the company meets legal standards. Firms like San Diego Gas & Electric look for experienced individuals to take on this critical role.
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3. Insurance Attorney
   Average Salary: $156,830
   As an insurance attorney, you will represent clients in disputes concerning insurance claims. This role requires strong negotiation skills and knowledge of insurance law. Organizations such as Farmers Insurance often look for talented professionals to navigate these complex issues.
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4. Counsel
   Average Salary: $156,745
   In the counsel position, you will advise businesses on legal rights, obligations, and risk management. You'll work on various legal issues, from contracts to compliance. Companies like Northrop Grumman value skilled counsel for their legal guidance.
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5. Patent Attorney
   Average Salary: $154,142
   A patent attorney assists clients in protecting their inventions and intellectual property. You will prepare patents and conduct legal research to ensure innovation protection. Local tech firms and biotech companies often seek patent attorneys for their expertise.
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6. Real Estate Attorney
   Average Salary: $146,685
   This role involves handling legal issues related to real estate transactions and property disputes. You will assist clients with contracts, closings, and zoning matters. Areas like Downtown San Diego have many opportunities in this field.
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7. Estate Planning Attorney
   Average Salary: $139,160
   In this position, you will help clients plan for the future by preparing wills and trusts. You’ll provide guidance on estate taxes and asset distribution. Firms such as Smith & McClain specialize in estate planning and seek compassionate experts.
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8. Contracts Manager
   Average Salary: $124,301
   As a contracts manager, you will oversee the development and review of contracts for an organization. You will ensure that all agreements comply with laws and company policies. Companies in the tech and government sectors actively search for competent professionals in this area.
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9. Civil Rights Attorney
   Average Salary: $122,500
   In this role, you will advocate for individuals' rights, handling cases of discrimination and injustice. You will work closely with clients to seek justice and uphold civil liberties. Non-profits in the San Diego area often need passionate civil rights attorneys.
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10. Defense Attorney
    Average Salary: $116,420
    As a defense attorney, you will represent clients accused of crimes and work diligently to prove their innocence. You will gather evidence and develop defense strategies. Public defenders and private practice firms in San Diego regularly look for skilled defense attorneys.
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