Adams County Clerk of Orphans' Court

Kelly Lawver is a lifelong resident of Adams County and has proudly served the community since being elected to office in November 2005. As a dual office holder, Kelly is responsible for both the Clerk of Courts Office and the Clerk of Orphans’ Court Office. Throughout more than two decades of elected service, Kelly has focused on improving efficiency, modernizing services, and expanding public access to records—all while reducing costs and generating new revenue without relying on taxpayer dollars.

What Is Orphans’ Court?
The Orphans’ Court is a division of the Court of Common Pleas that handles matters involving the personal and financial affairs of individuals who cannot manage them independently. This includes guardianships for minors and incapacitated adults, adoptions, estate matters, and marriage licensing. The Orphans’ Court ensures that vulnerable individuals and important family matters are handled with fairness, oversight, and legal integrity.

Modernization and Efficiency Initiatives
Kelly has made modernization a central priority of the office. Major accomplishments in Orphans Court include:

• Implementing electronic filing (e‑filing), allowing attorneys and the public to file documents conveniently and efficiently
• Launching electronic marriage applications, giving couples easier access and reducing in‑office wait times
• Expanding online access to records, ensuring transparency and convenience while maintaining strict preservation standards
• Introducing systems that streamline workflow, reduce processing times, and improve customer service
• Securing new sources of revenue for the office without using taxpayer dollars
• Strengthening long‑term records preservation efforts to protect Adams County’s historical and legal documents for future generations.

Commitment to the Community
Kelly remains committed to responsible stewardship of public resources, continued modernization, and maintaining an office that is accessible, transparent, and responsive to the needs of Adams County residents. As someone who has lived here all her life, Kelly takes great pride in serving the community and upholding its values.

The Orphans' Court staff cannot provide any legal advice.