Post-Articling Job Hunt (Alberta)

[Whist]

Hey all,

I'm going to be finding myself in the position of having to job hunt as a brand new call. For family reasons, I need to relocate to a different major centre so can’t stay on with my articling firm. I might be able to continue with them for a bit after my term ends based on discussions with them, but it's currently not certain. I will be called to the Bar sometime this Summer.

I'm currently cleaning up my application materials and seeing what's out there and it's not very encouraging, especially given the way the economy might be going. I have no leads from my current firm. I'll be shooting my shot at posted positions and cold-contacting others, but with few exceptions, even the most junior-friendly job postings want someone with at least a year of post-call experience. Most of the job postings are also not in practice areas of choice, although I will take what I can get. I’m willing to do anything that isn’t criminal law, and would prefer not to do family but will if I have to. I articled in it and I’m not sure I’m cut out for it.

Some people have said it took them a year to find a job and I can barely afford to be out of work for a month or two. I also don't really have the option of looking in small communities/towns nearby, as I'm the only one in my household with a vehicle and a significant commute is going to be really difficult.

Should I start sending in applications now despite my Bar call being months away? For those of you who were in this position - how long did you have to job hunt?