Let’s talk money – specifically, what family lawyers make in Illinois. Like most things in law, it’s not straightforward. Your paycheck depends on where you set up shop and how long you’ve been there.
Fresh out of law school? Most newcomers to family law pull in between $50-75K yearly. It’s not bad for starting, but there’s definitely to grow. Once you’ve got a few years under your belt (think 3-7 years of dealing with divorces and custody battles), you’re looking at somewhere between $75-120K. Put in the time to become a real veteran (7+ years), and now we’re talking serious money – anywhere from $100K to $200K+.
The real heavy hitters? Those would be the partners. They’re taking home anywhere from $200K to half a million annually. But here’s the thing – a lot of it comes down to WHERE you practice. Chicago attorneys typically command higher rates than their rural counterparts. It makes sense when you think about it – higher cost of living, more complex cases, deeper pockets.
Under standard industry practices:
- Government and non-profit positions typically offer compensation packages ranging from $40,000 to $70,000 annually
- Hourly billing rates generally fall within $200-500+, subject to attorney experience and market conditions
- Specialized practice areas (high-net-worth dissolution of marriage, complex custody arrangements) may command premium rates.
If you’re working at a non-profit or government gig, the pay will be lower – usually $40-70K. But some folks find that trade-off worth it. Conversely, if you’re handling high-net-worth divorces or complicated custody battles, you might be billed $200-500+ an hour. That adds up quickly. You’re keeping busy.
Compensation remains subject to various factors, including but not limited to market conditions, geographic location, specialization, and years of practical experience.
