Average Lawyer Hourly Rates in the United States (by Practice Area)

Introduction
Understanding average lawyer hourly rates in the United States is essential before hiring legal representation. Attorney fees vary widely depending on the type of legal service, the lawyer’s experience, and the region where services are provided. This guide explains what most people actually pay per hour and why rates differ so significantly across practice areas.


For a complete overview of attorney pricing, see our Lawyer Fees in the United States guide.

What Is the Average Hourly Rate for Lawyers in the U.S.?
On average, lawyer hourly rates in the United States range between $150 and $500 per hour. However, specialized attorneys and large law firms in major cities may charge $700 or more per hour, while smaller firms and solo practitioners often fall on the lower end of the range.

Hourly billing remains one of the most common fee structures for legal services, especially for litigation, consultations, and complex legal matters.


Average Lawyer Hourly Rates by Practice Area

Family Law

• Typical range: $200 – $400 per hour
• Common for divorce, custody, and support cases

Criminal Defense

• Typical range: $250 – $500 per hour
• Felony cases usually cost more than misdemeanors

Personal Injury

• Often contingency-based, but hourly rates (when used): $300 – $600
• Additional case expenses may apply

Corporate & Business Law

• Typical range: $300 – $700 per hour
• Large firms charge premium rates for complex transactions

Immigration Law

• Typical range: $150 – $350 per hour
• Flat fees are also common for visa-related cases

Estate Planning

• Wills and trusts may be billed at flat rates instead
• Typical range: $200 – $400 per hour
  

Why Lawyer Hourly Rates Vary

Several factors influence how much lawyers charge per hour:

• Experience level (junior vs senior attorney)
• Geographic location (urban vs rural areas)
• Type of legal matter
• Law firm size
• Case complexity and urgency

Lawyers in states with higher living costs typically charge higher hourly rates.
If you’re looking for a broader breakdown of legal costs beyond hourly rates, read our detailed guide on how much lawyers cost in the United States.

How to Estimate Your Legal Costs

To estimate legal costs accurately:

• Ask for an hourly rate upfront
• Request a written fee agreement
• Ask about minimum billing increments
• Clarify what additional costs may apply

Understanding these factors helps prevent unexpected legal expenses.

For a broader overview of attorney pricing, visit our Lawyer Fees in the United States guide.

Frequently Asked Questions