Even though the law is clearly settled that OPRA does not require a custodian to conduct research in order to answer a request, requestors continue to make this demand. In an unpublished opinion issued today, Branin v. Collingswood Boro Custodian, the Appellate Division once again rejected a requestor’s argument that the custodian should have performed research to find the documents sought.

In Branin, the requestor asked for the settlement agreement in certain litigation. There was no such document. The court stated that the custodian could have figured out the terms resolving the litigation by researching documents in the Borough solicitor’s litigation file, and having the solicitor explain the significance of various documents. But, the court stated flatly, “OPRA does not require such research.”