Lawyers in Ohio, like most other states, make an average salary that falls within the national range. The Ohio State Bar Association reports that the median annual wage for lawyers in Ohio was $107,019 in May of 2020. That salary falls on the higher end of the spectrum, as the median salary for lawyers throughout the United States is $122,960.
The type of law practiced impacts the salary earned by a lawyer. Those who work in corporate law can expect to make more than those who work in public interest law. Those who work in public interest law may earn a low salary, but they often receive benefits such as student loan forgiveness, job security, and paid vacation. Those who practice corporate law may make a higher salary, but they may also be subject to greater job uncertainty as the marketplace often changes.
The location of a lawyer’s practice also impacts salary. For example, lawyers in Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Columbus tend to make more than those in other parts of the state. Lawyers practicing in the major metropolitan areas of the state can expect to make more than those practicing in rural areas. The cost of living in these areas can also be higher, so it is important to factor that in when considering the overall salary.
Education and experience also play a role in the salary a lawyer can command. Those who have more education and experience typically make more than those with less. Lawyers who have attended prestigious universities and have many years of experience can expect to make more than those who have only recently graduated from law school.
The size of a law firm can also impact the salary earned by a lawyer. Lawyers who work in larger law firms may make more than those who work in smaller firms. This is because larger firms often have a higher overhead cost, so they can afford to pay their lawyers more. Additionally, larger firms may also offer more benefits such as retirement plans and health insurance.
The industry a lawyer works in can also affect salary. Lawyers who work in specialized areas such as tax or patent law may make more than those who work in general law. This is because these specialized areas are often in high demand and require a great deal of knowledge and expertise.
Finally, the hours worked by a lawyer may impact salary. Lawyers who work longer hours may make more than those who work fewer hours. Additionally, lawyers who take on a great deal of pro bono work may not make as much as those who only take on paying clients.
In conclusion, the average lawyer salary in Ohio reflects the national average. The type of law practiced, location, education, experience, size of law firm, industry, and hours worked can all impact a lawyer's salary. Lawyers who want to maximize their salary should consider all of these factors when deciding where to practice law.
