Odds of Getting In
This can be a tricky field to land a position in since you're relying on either the electoral process or appointment by the governor. If you're well-liked and have made a name for yourself, you can probably persuade others that you're a worthy choice. However, if you're not all about racking up accolades and rubbing elbows with political heavyweights, you're in for a tough trek.
Another major challenge is the lack of positions available in this career. With only a 2% growth rate, you're going to be battling to get a slot in your state government (source). Speaking of your state, where you live is going to make a big difference as well. In many states, the duties of this position have been absorbed into the magistrate court, doing away with the need for you and your gavel.
So, is it time to hang this dream up to dry? Not necessarily, but it's not going to be easy and there's no guarantee that the few states holding on to these positions will continue to do so for long. It might be prudent to consider looking into other careers in the legal field that have a higher rate of job growth and stability.