How much do criminal prosecutors make?
Criminal prosecutors are the lawyers who work in the public sector to try to convict and punish criminals who have been accused of committing crimes. They play a crucial role in upholding the law and bringing justice to victims. One of the most common questions that people have about becoming a criminal prosecutor is what they can expect in terms of salary.
Median Salaries for Criminal Prosecutors
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for prosecutors in the United States was $109,830 as of May 2020. Note: The median is the middle value in the distribution, so half of prosecutors earn more and half earn less.
Here are some interesting points about prosecutor salaries:
• The median salary for prosecutors with a bachelor’s degree only was $69,450, while those with a master’s degree made an average of $96,830, and those with a doctorate or professional degree earned a median salary of $138,320.
• Top-paying states: Alaska, New York, and California were the top three states in terms of average annual salaries, with mean salaries of $173,320, $162,690, and $146,240, respectively.
• Lowest-paying states: Mississippi, Arkansas, and West Virginia were the three states with the lowest median annual salaries, at $63,470, $64,150, and $66,340, respectively.
• Cities: Metropolitan areas with the highest mean salaries for prosecutors include Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco, at $151,540, $140,290, and $137,930, respectively.
• Benefits and perks: Prosecutors can expect to receive benefits and perks such as $20,000 or more in overtime pay each year, 14 or more days of annual vacation time, and access to top-tier pension plans.
Fringe Benefits and Benefits
As mentioned earlier, benefits and perks are a crucial aspect of being a prosecutor. Here are some key points to consider:
- Overtime: As prosecutors often work long hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, many are eligible for significant overtime pay. This can translate to an additional $20,000 or more per year.
- Vacation time: Prosecutors typically receive at least 14 or more days of paid annual vacation time, which allows them to recharge and attend to personal matters.
- Pension plans: Prosecutors often participate in top-tier pension plans, which can provide substantial retirement benefits and help plan for the future.
Highest-Paying Agencies for Prosecutors
While there is no single highest-paying agency for prosecutors, Federal agencies generally pay their prosecutors the highest salaries. Here are some top-paying agencies:
• FBI: FBI Special Agents, who handle legal work, typically start at a salary of $67,200 (GL-7 level).
• U.S. Attorneys Office: Deputy U.S. Attorneys typically start at a salary of $112,000.
• Internal Revenue Service: Trial Attorneys in the IRS’s Office of Chief Counsel can earn up to $155,200 per year.
• Bureau of Indian Affairs: Assistant United States Attorneys in the Department of Justice’s Bureau of Indian Affairs can earn up to $141,420 per year.
Job Outlook and Advancement
In terms of job outlook, the BLS expects the employment of prosecutors to grow 8% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. Experience, education, and skill will play significant roles in advancing career paths and increasing earning potential.
