How To Become an Environmental Lawyer? Salary & Career Paths for 2025

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For many students considering higher education, the viability of an environmental law career remains a significant question. Especially when faced with figures like the average annual salary of $132,377, navigating this career path can feel daunting without clear direction. To address these concerns and provide informed guidance, Research.com has drawn upon over a decade of career planning expertise, compiling this article using only credible sources.

You will find a comprehensive overview of how to become an environmental lawyer, including detailed salary information and potential career paths. This article equips you with valuable insights into the necessary educational requirements, essential skills, and professional opportunities. Ultimately, this will help you make well-informed decisions about your future.

Key Things You Should Know About Becoming an Environmental Lawyer

Steps to Becoming an Environmental Lawyer – A successful career in environmental law begins with a strong academic foundation, law school specialization, bar exam preparation, and practical experience through internships.
Specializations in Environmental Law – Environmental law spans multiple fields such as air and water quality, waste management, climate change, land use, and natural resource conservation, offering diverse legal focus areas.
Internship Opportunities – Aspiring environmental lawyers gain crucial experience through internships with nonprofits and government agencies, helping them apply legal skills to real-world environmental issues.
Job Outlook and Salary – Environmental law offers stable career prospects with an average salary of $132,377, though earnings vary by experience, specialization, and location.
Evolving Regulations and Environmental Justice – Environmental lawyers must stay updated on complex, changing regulations while advancing environmental justice by advocating for marginalized communities and sustainable policies.

What are the steps to becoming an environmental lawyer?
How long does it take to become an environmental lawyer for 2025?
What are the different areas of specialization within environmental law?
What are the specific challenges of the bar exam for environmental law practice?
Where can aspiring environmental lawyers find relevant internships?
What is the job outlook for environmental lawyers?
How much do environmental lawyers make?
How can environmental lawyers capitalize on sustainability initiatives?
How can integrating scientific expertise enhance environmental law practice?
How can affordable interdisciplinary education enhance environmental law practice?
What are the emerging areas of environmental law practice?
How do environmental lawyers keep up with evolving regulations?
How can environmental engineering insights enhance environmental law practice?
How does environmental law contribute to environmental justice?
How does urban planning intersect with environmental law?
How can interdisciplinary education complement environmental law practice?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an Environmental Lawyer

What are the steps to becoming an environmental lawyer?

Environmental lawyers protect the planet by addressing critical issues like climate change and pollution. They blend legal skills with environmental advocacy, driving sustainable practices through policy and enforcement. Here are the steps to become one.

Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree

To begin your path to becoming an environmental lawyer, you need to establish a strong academic foundation. While pursuing an undergraduate degree in a relevant field such as environmental studies, political science, economics, or even humanities is recommended, you might also consider exploring which degree offers the most efficient path to law school; however, remember that the easiest graduation degree may not always be the most beneficial in the long run. Regardless of your choice, you should aim for a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.5 or higher to improve your law school application prospects. Following this, prioritize preparation for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), a standardized test administered by the Law School Admission Council

Attend Law School

Following your undergraduate studies, enroll in a three-year Juris Doctor (JD) program at an American Bar Association (ABA)-accredited law school. During this period, specialize your legal education by focusing on environmental law courses such as land use, energy, and marine resources. You should also supplement your academic learning with practical experience through internships or clinical programs, specifically those focused on environmental advocacy.

Pass the Bar Exam

Upon completing your JD, you must pass the bar exam in your state of practice. Success depends on thorough preparation, so invest in practice courses and resources tailored to your state's exam format.

Gain Experience in Environmental Law

Secure internships or volunteer roles with environmental organizations, government agencies, or specialized law firms. This practical experience builds your policy drafting, litigation, and regulatory compliance expertise. To further enhance your policy understanding, consider exploring online MPP programs, as they can provide valuable theoretical and analytical skills that complement your hands-on experience.

Consider Advanced Degrees

Enhance your credentials with postgraduate programs such as a Master of Laws (LLM) in Environmental Law or a Ph.D. focusing on specific topics like air quality control or land use. While considering a Ph.D., it's worth noting that the easiest PhD to get may not align with the most impactful research or career goals in environmental law. Focus instead on a program that matches your interests and provides rigorous training.

Build Your Career

With your experience and qualifications in hand, begin applying for positions at nonprofit organizations, government agencies, corporate legal departments, or private law firms specializing in environmental law. Remember, the field is dynamic; continuously update your knowledge of evolving environmental policies and global sustainability issues to remain a competitive and effective advocate.

The chart below shows the most common environmental lawyer degrees.

How long does it take to become an environmental lawyer for 2025?

Becoming an environmental lawyer typically requires at least seven (7) years of post-secondary education and training. However, specialization, among other factors, can extend this timeline.

Bachelor’s Degree (4 years)
Law School (3 years)
Bar Exam (400-600 hours of study)
Postgraduate Degrees (+1-2 years)
Work experience (+5 more years for senior roles)

Factors Influencing the Timeline:

Academic Performance: A strong academic record can open doors to prestigious law schools and internships, potentially accelerating career progression.
Networking: Building professional connections can lead to valuable opportunities and mentorship.
Specialization: Focusing on a specific area of environmental law can lead to faster recognition and advancement.
Geographic Location: Job markets and career opportunities vary by region.
Personal Circumstances: Financial constraints, family obligations, and career changes can influence the timeline.

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What are the different areas of specialization within environmental law?

Environmental law covers diverse specializations addressing ecological protection, resource management, and regulatory compliance. Below are key areas of focus:

Air and Water Quality

Air and water quality laws aim to protect public health and ecosystems by regulating pollution levels. The Clean Air Act (CAA) establishes National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for pollutants like sulfur dioxide, ozone, and particulate matter, ensuring safe air for communities. It also governs emissions from industrial sources and vehicles. Similarly, the Clean Water Act (CWA) regulates discharges into navigable waters, sets pollutant limits, and protects wetlands. Water quality laws classify pollutants, manage industrial runoff, and enforce standards for drinking water safety under frameworks like the Safe Drinking Water Act.

Waste Management

Waste management laws focus on the proper handling of solid and hazardous waste to prevent environmental contamination. The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) implements cradle-to-grave regulations, covering the generation, transportation, treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials. These laws also address nuclear waste management and cleanup of contaminated sites under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), also known as Superfund. Regulatory efforts ensure waste is disposed of safely while promoting recycling and pollution prevention.

Land Use and Urban Planning

Land use laws govern zoning regulations, urban development, and sustainable planning to balance environmental preservation with economic growth. These laws protect biodiversity by limiting deforestation, preserving wetlands, and managing wildlife habitats. Urban planning integrates green infrastructure to reduce pollution and improve resilience to climate change. Legal frameworks often intersect with property law to ensure compliance with environmental impact assessments and administrative regulations for construction projects.

Climate Change and Energy

Climate change laws focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions through renewable energy policies, carbon trading systems, and energy efficiency standards. They address global warming by regulating fossil fuel usage and incentivizing clean energy technologies like wind or solar power. Litigation often arises over corporate accountability for emissions or policy failures. International agreements like the Paris Accord further guide national frameworks to meet climate goals while advancing sustainable development practices.

Natural Resource Management

Natural resource management laws promote the conservation of forests, minerals, fisheries, and wildlife through sustainable practices. They regulate activities such as logging, mining, and hunting to prevent overexploitation. Legal frameworks often include biodiversity protection measures under treaties like the Endangered Species Act or international conventions. Conflicts over resource extraction are addressed through land-use planning and stakeholder negotiations that balance ecological preservation with economic interests.

Meanwhile, the park ranger education requirements often involve a combination of degrees in environmental science, biology, or forestry, along with specific training for law enforcement roles. This education can be invaluable for environmental lawyers working in areas related to conservation and land use.

The chart below shows the specific environmental lawyer skills that aspirants need to develop.

What are the specific challenges of the bar exam for environmental law practice?

Environmental law practice presents unique challenges in bar exam preparation and practice, though the exam itself does not directly test environmental law. Key considerations include:

Bar Exam Structure and Content

The bar exam focuses on foundational legal topics like contracts, torts, and constitutional law, with no dedicated environmental law section. However, environmental attorneys must later navigate complex regulatory frameworks (e.g., Clean Air Act, Endangered Species Act) and scientific-legal intersections post-licensure.

Post-Bar Challenges in Environmental Practice

While the exam itself does not test environmental law, practitioners face:

Jurisdictional and Standing Issues: Environmental cases often require proving standing for non-traditional plaintiffs (e.g., ecosystems).
Scientific Complexity: Cases may demand collaboration with scientists to interpret data, though lawyers focus on legal arguments.
Rapidly Evolving Regulations: Attorneys must stay updated on new frameworks (e.g., carbon capture, hydraulic fracturing liability).
Ethical Balancing Acts: Managing tensions between environmental protection and economic development.

For individuals also interested in related scientific fields, like how do I start a career in paleontology, the ability to understand environmental regulations and work with scientific data can be advantageous, especially in cases involving fossil fuel extraction or endangered species protections.

Where can aspiring environmental lawyers find relevant internships?

Aspiring environmental lawyers can pursue internships through nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and academic programs. Below are some key opportunities:

Nonprofit Organizations

Western Environmental Law Center (WELC)

A summer legal internship is available to second and third-year law students, offering opportunities for litigation support, research, and drafting legal documents. The program includes flexible scheduling to accommodate outdoor activities. Meanwhile, the environmental law clinic collaborates with the University of Oregon to provide hands-on litigation and advocacy training.

Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL)

Washington, D.C. internships offer a focus on international environmental law, human rights, and policy analysis. Tasks include conducting research, drafting amicus briefs, and engaging in advocacy.

Clean Air Task Force (CATF)

A summer legal intern position is available as a full-time remote or hybrid role based in Boston, Massachusetts, supporting climate-focused litigation and policy work.

Government Agencies

U.S. Department of Justice (ENRD)

Law clerkships are uncompensated positions available in offices nationwide, including locations such as Washington D.C., Boston, and San Francisco, where individuals assist with environmental litigation, conduct research, and draft pleadings under federal statutes.

Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC)

Legal affairs internships involve researching and analyzing cross-border environmental issues under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which includes preparing submissions related to enforcement failures.

NOAA General Counsel

Legal internships and externships with the NOAA General Counsel offer opportunities to gain experience in federal environmental law, agency counseling, and litigation related to marine conservation.

What is the job outlook for environmental lawyers?

Overall lawyer employment is projected to grow at a rate consistent with the average for all occupations, at 5% from 2023 to 2033. This indicates a stable demand for legal services across specialties, including environmental law. Despite fluctuations in specific sectors, the expertise of environmental lawyers in regulations, litigation, and policy remains crucial, particularly given the increasing complexity of environmental issues and evolving regulations. These professionals are essential for addressing climate change, resource management, and environmental protection.

Such demand is clearly illustrated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which consistently requires legal professionals for its regulatory, enforcement, and policy work. The EPA's website highlights this need through diverse legal career postings, encompassing roles from regulatory attorneys to litigators. Thus, the projected growth rate, coupled with the EPA's ongoing hiring, reinforces the continued and potentially increasing need for lawyers specializing in environmental matters.

How much do environmental biologists earn on average?

How much do environmental lawyers make?

While the average annual salary for an Environmental Lawyer in the United States is $132,377, actual earnings can vary significantly based on several factors. Experience and specialization are key determinants, with lawyers in private firms or corporations typically earning more than those in public service or non-profit roles.

Furthermore, geographic location plays a crucial role. Differences in cost of living and regional demands for environmental legal expertise create substantial disparities in compensation. For example, although the average annual pay in California is $130,643, this figure fluctuates considerably across different cities within the state, highlighting the impact of localized factors on earnings.

The chart below shows the top ten highest-paying cities for environmental lawyers in California.

How can environmental lawyers capitalize on sustainability initiatives?

Environmental legal professionals are extending their expertise to promote sustainable practices across multiple sectors. They now play a pivotal role in advising corporations on integrating environmental accountability with strategic planning and regulatory compliance. By engaging in interdisciplinary collaboration, environmental lawyers can develop innovative legal frameworks that support sustainable development. This approach not only enhances their practice but also opens new opportunities beyond conventional litigation, enabling them to influence corporate and public policies that emphasize long-term environmental resilience. For professionals interested in broadening their scope, exploring careers in business sustainability can provide valuable insights into merging legal acumen with environmental innovation.

How can integrating scientific expertise enhance environmental law practice?

Environmental law increasingly requires a rigorous understanding of scientific principles to navigate complex regulatory challenges. Attorneys benefit from interpreting empirical data and collaborating with technical experts to strengthen legal arguments and shape effective policy solutions. This integration of science and law facilitates more informed decision-making, enabling practitioners to anticipate emerging trends in environmental regulation and advocate for sustainable practices. For professionals interested in building a robust interdisciplinary foundation, exploring the environmental scientist career path can provide invaluable insights into complementary scientific methodologies.

How can affordable interdisciplinary education enhance environmental law practice?

Environmental law increasingly demands a blend of legal acumen and scientific insight to address multifaceted environmental challenges. Affordable interdisciplinary programs provide targeted coursework that sharpens technical skills and strengthens evidence-based advocacy. By supplementing legal training with scientific perspectives, practitioners refine their analytical abilities and become more effective in policy development and litigation. Leveraging resources from the most affordable online master's environmental science can deliver a rigorous, cost-effective curriculum that bridges the gap between environmental studies and legal practice, thereby enhancing overall competence and strategic impact.

What are the emerging areas of environmental law practice?

Emerging areas of environmental law practice reflect evolving challenges and opportunities in addressing global environmental issues. Key trends include:

Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation: Legal actions targeting corporations and governments for their role in climate change are increasing, with a focus on accountability and sustainable practices. Renewable energy projects and decarbonization initiatives are driving demand for legal expertise in energy transition.
Environmental Justice: Environmental justice litigation addresses the disproportionate impact of pollution on marginalized communities, aiming to ensure equitable access to clean air, water, and a healthy environment.
Circular Economy and Sustainable Practices: Lawyers are increasingly involved in advising businesses on implementing circular economy models, reducing waste, and adopting sustainable practices.
Conservation and Biodiversity Protection: Legal frameworks for protecting endangered species and ecosystems are expanding as biodiversity loss becomes a critical issue.
Regulation of Emerging Contaminants: Litigation and regulation surrounding substances like PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are growing due to their widespread environmental impact.
Technology and Environmental Monitoring: The rise of digital environmental law involves using technology for monitoring compliance, managing risks, and addressing emerging technologies like hydraulic fracturing and genetically modified organisms.
Green Finance: Environmental lawyers play a role in green finance initiatives, advising on investments in renewable energy projects and sustainable development. While not a direct requirement, understanding financial principles can be highly beneficial. For those looking to expand their knowledge in this area, exploring the cheapest online master's in finance might be a valuable consideration.
Transboundary Environmental Issues: International legal disputes over shared resources, such as water bodies or air pollution, become more prevalent as global cooperation intensifies.

For those interested in a different yet equally impactful career, exploring how to become a PE teacher can also offer opportunities to influence environmental education, integrating health and fitness with sustainability initiatives in schools.

How do environmental lawyers keep up with evolving regulations?

Environmental lawyers keep up with evolving regulations through a combination of strategies that leverage technology, collaboration, and continuous education. Here are the key approaches:

Monitoring Regulatory Updates

Legal Databases and Software: Lawyers use advanced legal content software to track changes in environmental laws, regulations, and court decisions in real-time.
Government and Agency Resources: They follow updates from regulatory bodies and international organizations to stay informed about new policies and guidance.
Newsletters and Blogs: Subscribing to specialized newsletters, blogs, and RSS feeds helps lawyers stay updated on the latest developments in environmental law.

Leveraging Technology

AI and Data Analytics: Artificial intelligence is used to analyze large datasets, predict regulatory trends, and identify patterns of non-compliance.
Website Monitoring Services: Tools that track changes on regulatory websites ensure lawyers are alerted to updates as they happen.

Collaboration With Experts

Scientific Partnerships: Environmental lawyers work closely with scientists to interpret technical data related to issues like pollution, climate change, and resource management. This collaboration helps them build stronger legal arguments.
Interdisciplinary Teams: Lawyers often consult with policymakers, industry experts, and advocacy groups to understand the broader implications of regulations.

Professional Development

Seminars and Workshops: Attending conferences, seminars, and training sessions keep lawyers informed about emerging trends and best practices in environmental law.
Academic Engagement: Some lawyers engage with academic institutions to stay ahead of advancements in environmental science and policy development. For those interested in the intersection of law and education, or for those considering teaching environmental law in the future, exploring education masters degrees online could provide valuable pedagogical skills and knowledge.

Proactive Engagement

Policy Advocacy: Lawyers participate in the rulemaking process by drafting legislation, lobbying officials, and advising on policy design.

Litigation and Compliance Support: They help clients navigate compliance challenges while also addressing disputes through litigation when necessary.

How can environmental engineering insights enhance environmental law practice?

Environmental engineering principles provide a technical perspective that enriches environmental law practice. By integrating advanced engineering methods, practitioners can better interpret empirical data and evaluate the feasibility of environmental compliance strategies. This interdisciplinary approach refines risk assessments and bolsters advocacy by bridging legal frameworks with practical, scientific methodologies. Pursuing targeted programs, such as the most affordable online environmental engineering degree, equips legal professionals with the analytical tools needed to navigate complex technical challenges and innovate evidence-based legal solutions.

How does environmental law contribute to environmental justice?

Environmental law contributes to environmental justice by addressing the unequal distribution of environmental harms and benefits, particularly in marginalized and vulnerable communities. It incorporates principles of fairness and meaningful community involvement into decision-making processes, ensuring that all groups, regardless of race, income, or origin, have a voice in environmental policies and protections.

Legal frameworks are designed to prevent the disproportionate siting of polluting facilities in disadvantaged areas and to enforce accountability for environmental harm through regulatory mechanisms and litigation. Additionally, environmental justice emphasizes the integration of human rights into environmental governance, promoting equitable access to clean air, water, and land while empowering affected communities through legal support and advocacy. By merging ethics with legal enforcement, environmental law seeks to rectify systemic inequalities and uphold the right to a healthy environment for all.

How does urban planning intersect with environmental law?

Urban planning and environmental law converge in addressing land use, zoning, and sustainable community development. This interdisciplinary synergy enables legal professionals to navigate complex regulatory frameworks while promoting resilience and environmental sustainability in urban settings. In practice, environmental lawyers leverage insights from urban planning to advise on infrastructural projects, mitigate environmental impacts, and shape policies that balance development with ecological preservation. For practitioners seeking to integrate spatial planning strategies into their legal expertise, exploring the cheapest online masters in urban planning can offer a valuable complement to their traditional education.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Becoming an Environmental Lawyer

Environmental law allows me to directly impact policy and protect natural resources. The cases are complex, but the feeling of contributing to sustainable practices makes the work worthwhile. - Sylvia

I appreciate the blend of legal research and fieldwork that comes with environmental law. It's rewarding to see communities benefit from successful litigation and witness tangible improvements in their local environments. - Danilo

The field is constantly evolving, which keeps the work engaging. I find satisfaction in advocating for responsible development and ensuring that environmental regulations are upheld. - Emerita

How can interdisciplinary education complement environmental law practice?

Environmental law practice benefits significantly when legal expertise is enhanced by a strong grasp of scientific principles. Integrating specialized instruction in environmental research and data analysis sharpens an attorney’s ability to interpret complex technical evidence and adapt to evolving regulatory frameworks. For example, supplementing legal training with credentials from online environmental science degrees provides targeted insights that can inform more robust legal strategies, foster precise risk assessments, and ultimately promote innovative advocacy in sustainability-focused litigation.

Key Findings

The average annual salary for an Environmental Lawyer in the United States is $132,377.
Overall lawyer employment is projected to grow 5% from 2023 to 2033.
Becoming an environmental lawyer typically requires at least 7 years of post-secondary education and training.
Reports show environmental lawyer salaries reaching as high as $249,443 annually.
The average annual pay for environmental lawyers in California is $130,643.

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an Environmental Lawyer

What is the best major to become an environmental lawyer?

There is no specific undergraduate major required to become an environmental lawyer, but certain fields are highly beneficial. Degrees in environmental science, political science, economics, and humanities provide a strong foundation for understanding environmental issues and legal systems. English, philosophy, and communication studies are also valuable for developing skills in writing, analysis, and public speaking. Engineering degrees, especially in environmental or civil engineering, can be advantageous for technical cases.

What is the highest salary for an environmental lawyer?

Compensation for environmental lawyers can vary significantly. While a precise "highest salary" is difficult to pinpoint, data indicates that top earners in the field can achieve substantial incomes. For example, reports show salaries reaching as high as $249,443 annually, and the 90th percentile of earners frequently exceeds $200,000. These figures highlight the potential for significant earnings, particularly for those with specialized skills and experience in high-demand locations or sectors.

Where do most environmental lawyers work?

Environmental lawyers are employed across a broad spectrum of sectors. Government agencies rely on their expertise to enforce regulations and litigate cases. Private law firms specialize in environmental law, representing diverse clients in litigation and compliance matters. Non-profit organizations engage lawyers for policy development and advocacy. Corporations, particularly those in high-impact industries, employ in-house counsel for regulatory adherence. Academia also provides opportunities for teaching and research. This diverse employment landscape reflects the pervasive need for environmental legal expertise in both public and private realms.

Who enforces environmental laws in the United States?

The enforcement of environmental laws in the United States is a collaborative effort, spearheaded by the EPA. As the primary federal agency, the EPA sets national standards and ensures compliance, working to uphold legislation like the Clean Air and Water Acts. The Department of Justice (DOJ) plays a crucial role in litigating cases against violators of federal laws, partnering closely with the EPA. State and local agencies further contribute to enforcement, overseeing regulations at their respective levels. This shared responsibility ensures comprehensive environmental protection, with a network of agencies working in tandem.