1

Legal Psychologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Psychologist

Hyattsville, MD ยท On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Maintain accurate and confidential client records in compliance with ethical and legal standards. Skills: Psychological assessments will be utilized daily to evaluate clients' mental health and ...

Clarity's psychologists specialize in assessment and diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders ... legal guardian in the case of a minor). * Compile a written report detailing the evaluation ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Legal Psychologist information

See salary details

$28K

$63.5K

$102K

How much do legal psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for legal psychologist in the United States is $63,546.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $67,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Legal Psychologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Legal Psychologist, you need a strong background in psychology, expertise in legal systems, and typically a doctoral degree in psychology with specialized training in forensic or legal psychology. Familiarity with assessment tools, psychological testing protocols, and legal documentation is crucial, as is licensure as a psychologist. Strong analytical thinking, ethical judgment, and excellent communication skills help build credibility and effectively relay findings to legal professionals. These skills ensure accurate psychological evaluations, uphold ethical standards, and facilitate effective collaboration within the justice system.

What are legal psychologists?

Legal psychologists are professionals who apply principles of psychology to legal issues and the justice system. They often conduct research on topics like jury decision-making, eyewitness testimony, and competency evaluations. Legal psychologists may also provide expert testimony in court or assist with jury selection. Their work helps ensure that legal processes are informed by scientific understanding of human behavior. This field is a specialized area within forensic psychology.

How does a legal psychologist typically collaborate with attorneys and law enforcement officials during a case?

Legal psychologists often work closely with attorneys and law enforcement officials to assess witness credibility, develop jury selection strategies, or provide expert testimony related to psychological factors in legal cases. They may conduct forensic assessments, evaluate competency to stand trial, and offer insights on the psychological aspects of criminal behavior. Effective communication and maintaining objectivity are essential, as legal psychologists must translate complex psychological findings into clear, actionable information for legal professionals.

What does a legal psychologist do?

A legal psychologist applies psychological principles to legal issues, often evaluating individuals involved in legal cases, providing expert testimony, and assessing mental competency. They work in settings such as courts, law enforcement, or correctional facilities, utilizing assessments, interviews, and psychological testing. Certification or licensure in psychology is typically required for this role.

How much do law psychologists make?

Legal psychologists, or forensic psychologists, typically earn between $70,000 and $110,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and work setting. Salaries can vary based on whether they work in private practice, government agencies, or healthcare institutions, and advanced certifications may lead to higher pay.

What can I do in law with a psychology degree?

A legal psychologist can work in areas such as forensic assessment, criminal justice, or legal consulting, applying psychological principles to legal cases. They often conduct evaluations of witnesses or defendants, provide expert testimony, and assist in criminal or civil investigations. Certification and knowledge of legal procedures enhance career opportunities in this field.

What is the highest paid psychologist job?

The highest paid psychologists are often those in executive or specialized roles, such as neuropsychologists, forensic psychologists, or industrial-organizational psychologists working in corporate settings. These positions typically require advanced degrees, certifications, and extensive experience, and they can earn six-figure salaries or higher depending on the industry and location.
More about Legal Psychologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Legal Psychologist jobs? Cities with the most Legal Psychologist job openings:
What states have the most Legal Psychologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Legal Psychologist jobs include:
Full Time Tenure-Track Position (Open Rank) in Forensic and Legal Psychology

Full Time Tenure-Track Position (Open Rank) in Forensic and Legal Psychology

Marymount University

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Full Time Tenure-Track Position (Open Rank) in Forensic and Legal Psychology
The Forensic and Legal Psychology (FLP) program at Marymount University invites applications for a full-time tenure-track professor position (at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor) or full-time professor of practice position beginning in January 2026j.
This is a 9-month position in the Master's Program in Forensic and Legal Psychology program. Successful candidates will demonstrate interest in teaching in areas within Forensic and Legal Psychology, with preference given for candidates with clinical psychology backgrounds. Candidates should be able to teach core courses (i.e., Introduction to Psychopathology) as well as classes within their specialty. We are particularly interested in scholars with expertise in areas such as psychopathology (adult and/or children), assessment, substance abuse, trauma, or psychology of law enforcement.
For a tenure-track position, the candidate is expected to pursue an active scholarship agenda, applicable to the field of forensic and legal psychology, engage in inquiry-based teaching (6 classes per academic year), and participate in service to the program, school, college, and university as requested. Applicants must have a doctorate (PhD, PsyD). Appointment at either the Assistant or Associate level will be commensurate with the candidate's scholarship and experience.
To be appointed as a Professor of Practice, the candidate will be an experienced practitioner who holds the professional degree in their field and significant post-graduation experience with a distinguished record of achievement as a practitioner within the profession. The candidate is expected to engage in inquiry-based teaching (8 classes per academic year), and participate in service to the program, school, college, and university as requested.
Applications should include the following:
  • Cover letter (where you specify whether you are applying for an Assistant Professor tenure-track, Associate Professor tenure-track, or Professor of Practice role)

  • C.V.

  • Statement of research plan (1-2 pages)

  • Evidence of excellence in research (e.g., publication/technical report)

  • Statement of teaching philosophy (1-2 pages)

  • Evidence of excellence in teaching (e.g., teaching evaluations)

  • Statement on diversity (1-2 pages)

  • Names and preferred contact information for 3 references

Please upload all materials as one combined file where it says "upload resume"
The committee will begin reviewing applications on October 16, 2025. Review of applications may continue until the position is filled. Please submit applications via MU Careers website. If you have any questions regarding the position, please contact Courtney Porter (Chair of the Search Committee and Assistant Professor of Forensic and Legal Psychology) at cporter@marymount.edu.
About the Forensic and Legal Psychology Program Marymount
Our large and thriving program, which explores the connection and application of psychology to the legal system, was the first of its kind in the area. Our location in the DC area provides students with practical experience through internships in federal agencies, law enforcement, intelligence, mitigation, the courts, corrections, and research. The new faculty member will have opportunities to collaborate with community partners, and local, state, and federal government agencies.
Marymount's Forensic and Legal Psychology program is part of the Marymount University School of Social and Behavioral Sciences housed in the College of Sciences and Humanities. Faculty are expected to teach high-quality student-centric graduate courses in face-to-face settings. The Forensic and Legal Psychology M.A. Program is in Marymount University's new Ballston Academic Center in Arlington, Virginia.
Marymount University welcomes and values all members of our community. Guided by the mission of our founders, the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary (RSHM), to achieve unity through diversity, Marymount honors our diversity as a source of strength. Our differences inspire intellectual curiosity and collectively allow us to tackle the challenges of the world. We seek to foster an inclusive community in which each person's race, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, veteran status, age, ability, class, national origin, and immigration status are fully respected and celebrated. According to the vision of the RSHM that "ALL may have life, and have it to the FULL," we strive to create an atmosphere of mutual respect, cooperation, and civility where all community members are S.A.I.N.T.S-Safe, Accepted, Included, Needed, Treasured, and Seen.
Major Duties and Responsibilities
  • Support and integrate the mission and core values of Marymount University and Academic Affairs, including our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

  • Instruct all assigned classes (in person) using a variety of pedagogical approaches that both engage and facilitate student learning

  • Advise and assist students in education and career development to attain their master's degree

  • Engage in ongoing professional development that will include scholarship activities such as research, presentations, and participation with professional organizations (consistent with appointment in a tenure-track or professor of practice position)

  • Maintain office hours at times that provide appropriate access to students

  • Maintain a successful record of quality, peer-reviewed scholarship (for tenure-track positions only)

Other Duties
  • Assume professional responsibilities as requested by the Dean of the College and/or School Director

  • Contribute to the University, College of Sciences and Humanities, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences functions and services, including assessments, admissions, and continuous improvement activities

Minimum Qualifications
  • For a tenure-track position: A terminal degree (PhD, PsyD) from an accredited institution in psychology, or closely related field; advanced ABDs will be considered for candidates who would be hired at the rank of Assistant Professor

  • For the professor of practice position: the candidate will be an experienced practitioner who holds the professional degree in their field

Preferred Qualifications
  • Candidates working in the areas of psychopathology, trauma & victimization, and/or psychology of law enforcement.

Marymount University welcomes and values all members of our community. Guided by the mission of our founders, the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary (RSHM), to achieve unity through diversity, Marymount honors our diversity as a source of strength. Our differences inspire intellectual curiosity and collectively allow us to tackle the challenges of the world. We seek to foster an inclusive community in which each person's race, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, veteran status, age, ability, class, national origin, and immigration status are fully respected and celebrated. According to the vision of the RSHM that "ALL may have life, and have it to the FULL," we strive to create an atmosphere of mutual respect, cooperation, and civility where all community members are S.A.I.N.T.S-Safe, Accepted, Included, Needed, Treasured, and Seen.
Marymount provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Marymount University is an equal opportunity employer. Marymount University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status or any other protected bases under applicable federal and local laws and regulations in any of its programs or its activities, including employment and admission. The university also expressly prohibits any form of sex discrimination and sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, dating and domestic violence, rape, sexual assault, sexual exploitation and stalking in any of its programs or activities, including employment and admission. For more information, please visit: https://marymount.edu/student-life/health-wellness/title-ix-2/