Landmark cases

Question 1

What was District of Columbia v Heller?

Answer 1

In 2008, to do with 2nd amendment right to bear arms. Heller a police officer application for a fire arm was denied despite District of Columbia allowing chief of police to authorise 1 year licenses.

Question 2

What was the outcome of District of Columbia v Heller?

Answer 2

5-4 decision that it violated the 2nd amendment as the founding fathers wanted an individual to have one in case of confrontation.

Question 3

What was United States v Nixon?

Answer 3

1974, special prosecutor sought audio tapes recorded at the oval office from Nixon. Nixon said that he was immune from this because of executive privilege which is the right to withhold information to preserve confidential communications.

Question 4

What was the outcome of United States v Nixon?

Answer 4

Unanimous decision that the President must obey as executive privilege is limited by checks and balances. This established a new principle.

Question 5

SC recent ruling about 1st amendment right

Answer 5

decision in december 2020 to overturn New York State’s limits on religious gatherings during the COVID-19