Breaking News

Johnson v. United States

Docket No. Op. Below Argument Opinion Vote Author Term
08-6925 11th Cir. Oct 6, 2009
Mar 2, 2010 7-2 Scalia OT 2009

Holding: Federal gun laws require an enhanced sentence for defendant who have previously been convicted of a violent felony. The Court held that the defendant's prior conviction for battery in Florida did not count as a violent felony because under Florida law, although battery involves physical contact, the prosecution is not required to prove any use of physical force.

Judgment: Reversed and remanded, 7-2, in an opinion by Justice Antonin Scalia on March 2, 2010. Justice Alito dissented, joined by Justice Thomas.

SCOTUSblog Coverage

Briefs and Documents

Merits Briefs

Amicus Briefs

Certiorari-stage documents