How Much Do Military Lawyers Make?
The military is a respected and rewarding career path for many individuals, including lawyers. As a military lawyer, also known as a Judge Advocate General (JAG), you will have the opportunity to serve your country while utilizing your legal skills to support the military. But how much do military lawyers make?
Salary Range
The salary range for military lawyers varies based on their rank, experience, and location. Here is a general breakdown of the salary range for military lawyers:
- Lieutenant (O-3): $44,000 – $60,000 per year
- Captain (O-3/O-4): $55,000 – $80,000 per year
- Major (O-4): $65,000 – $90,000 per year
- Lieutenant Colonel (O-5): $80,000 – $110,000 per year
- Colonel (O-6): $100,000 – $130,000 per year
- Brigadier General (O-7): $120,000 – $150,000 per year
Bonuses and Incentives
In addition to their base salary, military lawyers may be eligible for bonuses and incentives. These can include:
- Sign-on bonuses: Up to $10,000 for new lawyers
- Continuation bonuses: Up to $20,000 per year for experienced lawyers
- Special Duty Pay: Up to $10,000 per year for lawyers serving in high-demand locations or positions
- Student Loan Repayment: Up to $20,000 per year for lawyers with outstanding student loans
Benefits
As a military lawyer, you will also receive a range of benefits, including:
- Health insurance: Free or low-cost health insurance for you and your family
- Retirement benefits: A generous pension plan and access to TRICARE, a health insurance program for military retirees
- Paid time off: 30 days of annual leave, plus 11 federal holidays
- Education benefits: Access to the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which can be used for education expenses
- Travel opportunities: The opportunity to travel and serve in different locations around the world
Comparison to Civilian Lawyers
When comparing the salary and benefits of military lawyers to civilian lawyers, it’s important to consider the following:
- Cost of living: Military lawyers are typically stationed in areas with a lower cost of living, which can increase their purchasing power.
- Bonuses and incentives: Military lawyers may receive additional bonuses and incentives that are not available to civilian lawyers.
- Benefits: Military lawyers receive a range of benefits, including health insurance, retirement benefits, and paid time off, that may not be available to civilian lawyers.
- Job security: Military lawyers have job security and are unlikely to face layoffs or budget cuts.
Table: Comparison of Military and Civilian Lawyer Salaries
| Rank | Military Lawyer Salary | Civilian Lawyer Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Lieutenant (O-3) | $44,000 – $60,000 | $60,000 – $80,000 |
| Captain (O-3/O-4) | $55,000 – $80,000 | $70,000 – $90,000 |
| Major (O-4) | $65,000 – $90,000 | $80,000 – $100,000 |
| Lieutenant Colonel (O-5) | $80,000 – $110,000 | $90,000 – $120,000 |
| Colonel (O-6) | $100,000 – $130,000 | $100,000 – $130,000 |
| Brigadier General (O-7) | $120,000 – $150,000 | $120,000 – $150,000 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, military lawyers can earn a competitive salary and receive a range of benefits and incentives. While the salary range for military lawyers may be lower than that of civilian lawyers, the benefits and job security of a military career can make up for this difference. If you are considering a career as a military lawyer, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and consider your individual circumstances.
Additional Resources
- Military.com: A comprehensive resource for military information, including salary and benefits information.
- USAJOBS: The official website for federal government job listings, including military lawyer positions.
- The Judge Advocate General’s Corps: The official website for the JAG Corps, including information on careers and benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the most important thing to consider when deciding to become a military lawyer?
- The most important thing to consider is whether you are willing and able to serve your country and make sacrifices for the military.
- How do I become a military lawyer?
- To become a military lawyer, you must first graduate from law school and then apply to the JAG Corps through the USAJOBS website.
- What are the benefits of being a military lawyer?
- The benefits of being a military lawyer include a competitive salary, job security, and access to a range of benefits and incentives.
