What is the Job?
The dream of Amanda Taylor is to protect the rights of individuals accused of crimes by investigating cases, negotiating with prosecutors for plea bargains, filing legal motions, and representing clients in court.
What is the Pay?
- Starting Pay: $50,000-$100,00+
- Median Pay:$70,000-$100,000
- Max Pay: $500,00-$1 million
What you actually do
A criminal defese lawyer investigates cases, analyze evidence, negotiate with prosecutors for plea deals, and represent clients in court to achieve dismissals or reduced sentences.
Cost of Living
As of March 2026, criminal defense lawyers in Florida earn an average salary of approximately $96,257 annually, with top earners exceeding $114,600.
- Average Salary: The average salary for a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Florida is $96,257.
- Salary Range:Top earners in the state can make upwards of $114,605 per year.
- Billing Structure:Local attorneys often utilize flat fees for services, ranging from thousands for misdemeanors to significantly higher for serious felonies. Some firms in the Fort Walton Beach area may offer payment plans.