Actually, Art's major was business economics, and he is a professor of economics at UAF. He also owns Warbelow's Air Ventures, which is a scheduled 135 carrier, running C-206's and Navajo's mostly. Art has one Cub, which he flies during that hunting season to keep his hand in.
This is precisely the approach I'd suggest you take, by the way, that is: find a law firm here in Alaska that you can work with. On the side, either buy an airplane and build some experience, or try to find someone who'll let you fly. One of the biggest kinks in anyone's program up here is getting some time in Alaska, for insurance purposes. Most insurance carriers want 500 hours of Alaska time, regardless of ratings, but there are exceptions.
Anyway, perhaps this would allow you to pay off debts, while starting to build some experience in Alaska, and also give you the opportunity, with some cushion, to figure out whether both you and your family, will like Alaska well enough to stay. I've been here nearly 30 years, and I love the place, but every once in a while, I get this "get the hell outta here" attack, which generally lasts for about twenty minutes. Nonetheless, it isn't for everyone, and before you cut all ties to the law, I'd ease my way into it.
By the way, earning a living flying in bush Alaska is a thankless, not too pretty job, having to deal with a lot of unpleasant people, some actually sober, with incredibly long hours, lousy benefits (if any) and poor pay. Screw up just once the wrong way, and it won't just end your career, it'll end your life.
All but the last two probably fit the lawyering trade, as well.
Nonetheless, a smooth flight right at sunrise with a nice bunch of folks for passengers can be a very rewarding profession. There are sights and experiences you won't find anywhere else.
There are some good opportunities for lawyers up here, find one where you can pay off your debt, eat, and see if this is where you want to be. In the meantime, I'd agree that I'd get rated elsewhere, preferably before coming to AK. Training up here is too restrictive, at least for the basics.
Good luck,
Mike Vivion