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Average Salary of a Lawyer in Canada (2025)
Are you considering a career as a lawyer in Canada? Becoming a lawyer requires years of education and training, but it’s often regarded as one of the most financially rewarding professions. If you’re wondering, "What is the average salary of a lawyer in Canada?", this guide will provide a detailed breakdown.
How Much Do Lawyers Earn in Canada?
The average salary of a lawyer in Canada varies based on factors such as specialization, location, and experience. According to the Canadian Job Bank, the median salary for lawyers in Canada is $120,000 per year.
However, lawyer salaries can range widely. A junior lawyer earns an average of $75,000 per year, while a senior corporate lawyer can earn significantly more.
Lawyer Salaries by Specialization in Canada
| Specialization | Average Salary (Annual) |
|---|---|
| Family Lawyer | $90,000 |
| Corporate Lawyer | $140,000 |
| Criminal Lawyer | $110,000 |
| Tax Lawyer | $125,000 |
| Intellectual Property Lawyer | $130,000 |
Factors That Affect a Lawyer’s Salary in Canada
1. Legal Specialization
Lawyers who specialize in corporate law, intellectual property, or tax law tend to earn higher salaries than general practitioners.
2. Experience Level & Leadership Roles
Entry-level lawyers earn less but can see significant salary increases over time. Senior lawyers who take on leadership roles in firms or open their own practices often earn more.
3. Location
Salaries for lawyers vary by province and city. Lawyers working in Toronto, Vancouver, or Calgary typically earn more than those in smaller cities or rural areas due to higher demand and cost of living.
4. Public vs. Private Sector
Lawyers working in the private sector or at top-tier law firms often earn more than those working in public service or government roles.
Additional Earnings for Lawyers
Many lawyers supplement their salaries through:
-
Consulting and advisory roles
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Teaching at law schools
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Writing legal publications
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Opening a private law firm
FAQ: Lawyer Salaries in Canada
How much do lawyers get paid in Canada?
The median salary for lawyers in Canada is $120,000 per year, according to the Canadian Job Bank. However, salaries can vary significantly based on specialization, location, and experience.
How much do top 1% lawyers make?
The top 1% of lawyers in Canada, particularly those in corporate law or prestigious law firms, can earn upwards of $300,000 to $1,000,000+ per year depending on their clientele and firm reputation.
How much do international lawyers make in Canada?
International lawyers working in Canada can earn $90,000 to $160,000 per year, depending on their expertise, law firm, and whether they handle cross-border legal cases.
How much do family lawyers get paid in Canada?
Family lawyers in Canada earn an average of $90,000 per year, with experienced practitioners earning upwards of $120,000 or more.
See Other Salaries in Canada
Interested in learning more about high-paying careers in Canada? Explore other salary guides for professionals across various industries.
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Qayyum Rajan, CFA
Qayyum is the CEO of Wealth Awesome, a leading Canadian personal finance publication. As a CFA charterholder with extensive experience in fintech, data science, and quantitative finance, he brings a unique analytical perspective to investing and wealth management.
View Full Profile →✅ Reviewed by Certified Financial Professionals
This content has been reviewed by CFA® charterholders and Certified Financial Planners (CFP®) with over a decade of experience in Canadian financial markets. All information is fact-checked against official Canadian sources and regulations.
Why these credentials matter: CFA® charterholders complete 900+ hours of rigorous study in investment analysis and ethics. CFP® professionals are held to the highest standards of financial planning competency and fiduciary duty in Canada.
⚠️ Professional Disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized financial advice. While our team brings professional expertise, individual circumstances vary. For personalized guidance, consult with a qualified financial advisor, tax professional, or mortgage specialist.
