States in the union preserve records on court documents, traffic infractions, marriage and divorce permits, property and lien records, and much more, and thanks to New Jersey’s Open Public Records Act, these records are offered to the general public. All pertaining facts about the numerous happenings of law enforcement officials, municipal courts, and local government are found in these records, and generally are believed public unless officially redacted. Residents of Avon-by-the-Sea are able to better understand their rights because of these laws, and the transparency available from the release of these records helps to keep both criminals and legislators responsible with regard to their actions, in turn leading to a more open and free society for all.