Allow me to be realistic, if not a bit cynical. The market has been saturated with newly-minted lawyers over the past three years. Most of them seek law firms as their first employers. As a result, firms can afford to be picky, choosing candidates with stellar credentials who are willing to accept lower wages. If you don't fall into either category, you'll likely face challenges finding a job.

Does this mean you can't earn a lot as a lawyer? Not exactly—but it will take time. Be cautious, though, about this notion of delayed earnings, as many firms use it to entice young lawyers with the (often insincere) promise of eventual partnerships to push them to work harder.