The law firm of Kelley & Hite, and its attorneys, have a rich history with roots in Nelson County that extend back to 1877, when John S. Kelley first opened his law practice in Bardstown. Mr. Kelley was in the second graduating class from the University of Louisville School of Law and served as the first Vice-President and second President of the Kentucky Bar Association. His devotion to the law was passed on to three of his sons, Victor Kelley, John S. Kelley II, and Bethel Kelley, all of whom became lawyers.

Bethel Kelley began practicing law in 1937 in Detroit, Michigan, where he represented Ford Motor Company, along with other major clients. His college roommate was former President Gerald Ford. Bethel served in the Navy in World War I.

Victor Kelley and John S. Kelley II both served their country during World War I. Victor served in the Navy, while his brother served in the Army. After serving their country, they began practicing law in 1941.

Victor Kelley passed his love of the law onto his two sons, John "Jack" S. Kelley III, who began practicing law in 1956, and Victor Kelley II, who practiced from 1951 until his death in 1967. Jack Kelley has practiced law in Bardstown since 1956 and has represented a wealth of clients from all walks of life. He served and helped found the Bardstown Industrial Development Corporation and helped to found the Stephen Foster Drama Association. He served his country in the Air Force during World War II and is a veteran of the Korean War. Jack's son, John S. Kelley IV, followed in his father's footsteps and is the fourth generation Kelley to practice law in Bardstown.

John S. Kelley, IV, started practice in 1981 and continues the proud legal tradition started by his great-grandfather in 1877 through the firm of Kelley & Hite, PLLC. This firm handles all areas of practice. To find out more about the firm, click here. As County Attorney, John Kelley is also responsible for prosecuting traffic offenses, misdemeanor crimes, and most juveniles. To find out more about the County Attorney, click here. To find out more about child support, click here.

Home

© 2002 Kelley & Hite Law PLLC