<p>I agree completely, ariesathena! What constructive things (other than sending out resume after resume after resume) has this guy been doing since he lost his job? Has he thrown himself into bar activities? Tried to find some pro bono work in areas of interest or even merely to keep his skills fresh? Has he networked with alumni from his prestigious schools?
Has he set up his own practice and tried to bring in some clients?</p>
<p>Sending out resumes into the ethers might land you a job, but it is unlikely, at least in law. Law firms, corporations and other employers are increasingly risk averse in their hiring decisions. Even when the decision is made to replace someone who has left/add headcount, employers are much more likely to interview people whose resumes come in through current employees. </p>
<p>In addition, as you noted, ariesathena, many employers are hiring lawyers as temps for some period of time as a real world trial. Those temps are not eligible for benefits and are generally paid less than their full time counterparts. However, if a lawyer proves him or herself, that lawyer may end up with a full time position.</p>