New Jersey, often celebrated for its diverse landscapes and vibrant communities, is also a state where the pillars of justice and safety stand strong, constantly evolving to meet the needs of its residents. At Explore New Jersey, we pride ourselves on showcasing the dynamic spirit of the Garden State, from its picturesque towns to the unwavering commitment of its institutions. Today, we delve into two significant milestones that highlight this dedication: a quarter-century of legal advocacy for employees and a century of dedicated police service, both reaffirming New Jersey’s enduring commitment to its citizens.
Twenty-Five Years of Upholding Workplace Justice: Zatuchni & Associates’ Enduring Legacy
In the intricate world of employment law, having steadfast advocates is crucial for ensuring fairness and protecting the rights of workers. This year, New Jersey proudly recognizes a remarkable milestone: Zatuchni & Associates, a prominent employment law firm, celebrates its 25th anniversary. Operating out of Lambertville and with a focus exclusively on employee rights, the firm has spent a quarter of a century standing shoulder-to-shoulder with workers, navigating the complexities of workplace disputes, and striving for equitable resolutions.
Their quarter-century of dedicated service comes at a particularly relevant time for New Jersey’s workforce. The year 2025 has seen a significant expansion of workplace protections across the state, reflecting a progressive commitment to employee well-being. These advancements underscore the increasing importance of specialized legal counsel, making firms like Zatuchni & Associates even more indispensable. Their journey over the past 25 years has not just been about individual cases; it has been about contributing to a broader environment where employees feel secure, knowing their rights are championed. Their consistent advocacy plays a vital role in shaping a more just and responsive workplace landscape across New Jersey. This commitment to upholding justice is a cornerstone of a well-ordered society and a testament to New Jersey’s progressive approach to law and order. To learn more about the broader legal landscape and how such firms contribute to justice in our state, explore our Law & Order section: https://explorenewjersey.org/category/law-order/.
A Century of Service: Celebrating the Montville Township Police Department
Few institutions embody the steadfast dedication to community safety as profoundly as a local police department. This past week, Montville Township in Morris County proudly marked a monumental occasion: the 100th anniversary of its Police Department. On July 11, 1925, the Montville Township Police Department was formally established, embarking on a century-long journey of unwavering commitment to protecting and serving its residents.
The centennial celebration, attended by a host of local and county dignitaries including Morris County Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen and Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo, was a powerful tribute to a department that has become an integral part of the community’s fabric. Commissioner Director Selen aptly praised the department for representing “the very best of public service,” highlighting their commitment to professionalism, safety, and community partnership.
The roots of the Montville Police Department stretch back to the early 1920s, with Russ Hilbert serving as the township’s first special officer and constable, laying the groundwork for what would become a formidable force for good. Hilbert himself would later become the department’s first chief in 1939. From its humble beginnings operating out of what is now the Montville Senior House – where the original jail cell remarkably still remains – the department has steadily expanded its capabilities and reach.
Key milestones over the decades include the establishment of a full-time dispatch desk in 1964, a dedicated Detective Bureau in 1965, and a forward-thinking Community Policing Unit in 1988 under Chief Carl DeBacco, which notably introduced the vital Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program to local schools. Today, the Montville Police Department boasts a force of 41 sworn officers, four special officers, and specialized units covering patrol, detective work, traffic management, and invaluable school resource roles, ensuring comprehensive protection for the township’s diverse needs. The anniversary event itself was a vibrant affair, featuring a tour of their impressive 18,000-square-foot facility on Route 202, an engaging K-9 demonstration, and a community lunch provided by Rails Steakhouse, reinforcing the strong bonds between the department and the people it serves.
These dual narratives – of enduring legal advocacy and a century of protective service – collectively paint a picture of New Jersey as a state deeply invested in the well-being and security of its citizens. From the individual employee seeking justice to an entire township relying on its dedicated police force, the commitment to law and order, and the pursuit of a fair and safe environment, remains a defining characteristic of our beloved Garden State. Explore New Jersey continues to celebrate these foundations that make our state a remarkable place to live, work, and thrive.