Just found out I passed! Too bad there's no market up here for entry level associates. Anyone have any thoughts on when this market is likely to turn around? I think I'm a pretty decent candidate for a position with a mid-size firm. I graduated with honors/wrote on a law journal/worked five years in real estate development (trying to get into a real estate practice). The good news is I've had a lot of time to improve at chess! 

congrats on passing the bar

hopefully market/economy has bottomed- only way to go is up!

Congratulations on passing the bar exam, Michael!  Good luck with the job search.

One area you may want to think about is foreclosure defense.  I am sure that is an area where there is a real need now.  Maybe you could start off doing some pro bono work, volunteering for a local legal aid or housing advocacy group.  Anyway, good luck with it and with your career in real estate law practice!

I always thought I wanted to work in a mid- to large firm.  I end up in a small firm in southern Indiana, with two other lawyers, and after 30 years would never think of changing.  The job market may be better with small firms, but they (I) do not necessarily plan too far ahead.  All of the lawyers I have ever hired were after someone left and I needed someone now.  If you are looking for work, try contacting and keeping in touch with, small firms, or solo practitioners.  Cities are full of lawyers who used to be with larger firms.

That is great advice and I am definitely going to take it to heart. Thank you!