Maryland state regulations determine that records recording public decisions such as court papers, arrest records, marriage licenses, vehicular violations and more are open and available to the populace, largely because of the Maryland Public Information Act. All relevant specifics on the numerous happenings of law enforcement officials, local courts, and local government are contained in these records, and generally are presumed public unless officially redacted. Residents of Chester are able to better understand their rights due to these laws, and the transparency provided by the release of these records helps to keep both criminals and regulators culpable for their actions, subsequently resulting in a more open and free society for all.