Canadian Lawyer - NY Bar? Upstate NY Legal Market? Forum

[Anonymous User]

I practiced Commercial Real Estate Law for 4 years-ish in Canada. Long story short, career went from midsize boutique firm --> successful solo ---> hired associates/found partners ---> set to retire from the firm I build up in 2020. Luckily, I cashed out of Toronto real estate market in 2017.

Due to family responsibilities, I will be moving to the US next year. I have dual citizenship, so immigration isn't an issue, but I need to find a place to settle down. From my research, it looks like I will only be able to sit for the NY or California Bar. I don't want to be too far from Toronto, so ideally within a 4-5 hours drive. I have been looking at possible places in upstate NY, but I have no idea about the legal market.

I want to start a solo shop or perhaps join a small firm that offers good lifestyle. I am definitely not looking for high salary, I think 30-40k is probably enough to supplement my investment income. I really like the area around Bolton Landing, is it realistic to live there long term?

Any recommendation on the city/town/areas to settle down in upstate ny would be appreciated! I like the outdoors and traveled a bit in the past year in the State, so I have a rough idea where it's terrible.