Introduction
Have you ever wondered how much a lawyer earns in Pakistan? Whether you’re a law student, career switcher, or simply curious — this guide covers the complete breakdown of lawyer salaries across different sectors in Pakistan, including corporate law firms, private practice, judiciary, and government jobs.
How Much Does a Lawyer Earn in Pakistan?
The average lawyer salary in Pakistan varies based on:
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Experience (junior vs. senior lawyer)
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City (Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, etc.)
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Law specialization (criminal, corporate, civil, etc.)
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Employer type (law firm, court practice, government, private company)
| Experience Level | Monthly Salary (PKR) |
|---|---|
| Fresh Graduate | 25,000 – 50,000 |
| 2–3 Years Exp. | 60,000 – 120,000 |
| Mid-Level (5+ Years) | 150,000 – 300,000 |
| Senior Lawyer | 500,000+ |
| Supreme Court Advocate | Up to 1,000,000+ |
Note: Lawyers in top firms or high-profile criminal/civil cases can charge per case fee instead of a monthly salary.
Corporate Lawyer Salary in Pakistan
Corporate lawyers working in multinational companies (MNCs) or top law firms earn some of the highest salaries in Pakistan.
| Employer Type | Avg. Monthly Salary |
|---|---|
| Corporate Law Firm (Top Tier) | 150,000 – 400,000 |
| In-house Legal Department (MNC) | 200,000 – 600,000 |
| Mid-sized Firm | 80,000 – 150,000 |
Big names like Raja Mohammed Akram & Co., Mandviwalla & Zafar, and ABS Legal often offer attractive packages to experienced lawyers.
Criminal & Civil Lawyer Salary (Private Practice)
Lawyers practicing independently in criminal or civil law earn through case fees, not fixed salaries.
| Practice Type | Fee per Case |
|---|---|
| Bail Case | 10,000 – 50,000 |
| Civil Suit | 30,000 – 150,000 |
| Criminal Trial | 50,000 – 500,000 |
| High Court Writ | 100,000+ |
Well-known criminal lawyers or civil advocates can earn over Rs. 1 million/month, depending on their reputation and client base.
Government Lawyer & Judiciary Salary
If you’re working as a government legal advisor, public prosecutor, or part of the judicial system, the pay scale is set by government rules.
| Position | Monthly Salary |
|---|---|
| Assistant Public Prosecutor | 70,000 – 120,000 |
| Deputy Attorney General | 200,000 – 300,000 |
| Civil Judge | 120,000 – 250,000 |
| High Court Judge | 400,000 – 600,000 |
| Supreme Court Judge | 700,000 – 1,000,000+ |
Government jobs offer benefits like housing, pension, and job security.
How to Increase Your Income as a Lawyer
Want to earn more as a lawyer in Pakistan? Here are proven tips:
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Specialize in high-demand areas like intellectual property, tax law, or tech law.
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Build your own law firm and increase client base through digital presence.
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Take high-profile cases or become a legal consultant for startups.
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Offer online legal services through freelancing platforms or legal websites.
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Get certifications in international law to work with global clients.
Top Cities with Highest Lawyer Salaries in Pakistan
| City | Reason |
|---|---|
| Karachi | Corporate hub with top firms and commercial clients |
| Islamabad | Government, NAB, and Supreme Court cases |
| Lahore | Civil courts, property cases, and local businesses |
Pros and Cons of a Legal Career in Pakistan
Pros:
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High long-term earning potential
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Respectful and prestigious profession
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Option to become judge or public figure
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Freelance and consultancy freedom
Cons:
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Slow income growth in early years
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Long hours and case pressure
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High competition in urban centers
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Initial salary may be low (especially without connections)
FAQs – Lawyer Salary in Pakistan
Q: What is the starting salary of a lawyer in Pakistan?
A: Around Rs. 25,000–40,000/month for fresh graduates, mostly as junior associates or interns.
Q: Can lawyers earn in crores in Pakistan?
A: Yes. Senior lawyers or Supreme Court advocates handling corporate or high-profile cases can earn over Rs. 10 million annually.
Q: Which type of lawyer earns the most?
A: Corporate lawyers, Supreme Court advocates, and criminal lawyers with private practices tend to earn the most.
Q: Is law a good career in Pakistan?
A: Yes, but it requires patience and experience. Income increases significantly after 5–10 years.
Conclusion
The lawyer salary in Pakistan depends on many factors—location, experience, specialization, and reputation. While the early years may offer modest earnings, the long-term rewards of a legal career are substantial and stable.
If you’re passionate about justice and legal work, then with the right strategy, law can be one of the most rewarding professions in Pakistan.
