If I just submitted all of my application materials, how long will it take to begin the background check meaning how long between now and when the Bar Investigators send out my employer references? I just want to give my previous employers a heads up?

What happens if an employer fails to respond?

It depends on your history; it could take anywhere from 2-6 months.

Employers not being responsive generally has no effect. They have an option to respond. They don't have to respond.

I submitted my package at the beginning of June, and within weeks my personal references (the three attorney references) got their forms. I contacted my two most recent employers as soon as I sent it to give them a heads up, but I haven't called either one back to ask if they were contacted.

So, the answer is that it could be a few weeks. BTW, I am an older applicant so my packet was huge with many entries for employment, addresses, licenses, and schools.

Wait, so employer's don't have to respond? Providing there are no negative employer responses the application can be passed thru?

My current employer and my lawyer referral were contacted within 2 weeks and my previous employer was contacted within 6 weeks. I recommend you to contact all your referrals as soon as you send your complete set of documents.

I was told I need an attorney reference outside of my legal employers who will be contacted obviously. The only attorneys that know me well enough outside of them are law professors. Can I use one for my personal attorney reference?

My school assigns a law school advisor for each year.  During the last year, the advisor told us to use her on the application.  Ask around your school their might be a assigned person to use on the application