In this episode of Death and Dirt, we are joined by Jean Marfizo King, the Register of Wills and Clerk of the Orphans’ Court for Dauphin County, who has been serving the county since 2011. Jean shares insights into the vital role these offices play in estate administration, guardianship proceedings, adoptions, and the issuance of marriage licenses, and how her leadership has modernized the way the office serves the public.

We dive into how Jean has successfully implemented technology solutions to improve probate efficiency, file management, and the issuance of marriage licenses, transforming traditional processes into streamlined, accessible services for the community.

Jean also discusses the broader impact of her work through her involvement in the Register of Wills and Clerks of the Orphans' Court Association of Pennsylvania, highlighting the common challenges faced by offices across the Commonwealth and the importance of collaboration and advocacy within this network.

Whether you're a legal professional, court official, or just curious about how public service and technology intersect in estate and family law, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

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Jennifer Galloway - Jenn attended Elizabethtown College, double majored in Criminal Justice and Political Science, always planning to attend law school. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Duquesne University School of Law, in Pittsburgh, and moved back to York County, where she currently resides and works. After just over a decade in private practice in estate planning, estate and trust administration and Orphans’ Court litigation, Jenn recently joined Counsel Trust Company as their Chief Fiduciary Officer. In this new role, she oversees the trust operations and administrations department back office and team of financial advisors, and was happy to trade the billable hour for a bit more structure.

Jay Hagerman - Jay earned a degree in American history at Gettysburg College. During that time, he worked in the White House Office of Correspondence in Washington, D.C. He attended Duquesne University School of Law, focusing his time learning about laws relating to wealth creation and preservation. He founded the elder law firm Abernethy & Hagerman, where he currently works. Jay resides in Hampton Township with his wife and family, which allows him to serve clients throughout Western Pennsylvania.

Fred Long - Fred Long is a partner at Long Brightbill, a law firm based in Lebanon, Pennsylvania. His practice is focused on estate planning, trust and estate administration, probate, and real estate transactions. Fred holds an Estate Planning Certificate from Temple University Beasley School of Law and earned a Juris Doctor from Widener University School of Law, graduating with honors. Additionally, he has a Bachelor of Science in Communications with a Minor in Economics from Susquehanna University. In addition to his professional work, Fred is actively involved in community organizations and enjoys spending time with his family and friends, engaging in outdoor activities such as mountain biking, hiking, camping, skiing, and exploring the Pennsylvania wilderness.

*audio editing & music by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nick DeMatteo⁠