DC v Heller
A Court Case on Second Amendment Grounds
Basic Information
- A policeman by the name of Dick Heller applied to keep a handgun in his home in the District of Columbia
- His application was denied because the District of Columbia makes it illegal to own a firearm
- Heller filed a lawsuit on Second Amendment grounds
- The District Court dismissed the case, but the Court of Appeals directed the District Court to write a summary in favor of the District of Columbia's decision to have a total ban on firearms
Court Ruling
The Court of Appeals of D.C. ruled that the total restriction on handguns violated a citizen's right to bear arms as seen in the Second Amendment.
Constitutional Reference
- "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed."
- Second Amendment
- The District of Columbia's firearm restriction denied the right to bear arms as seen in the Second Amendment
Historic Significance
This ruling caused the District of Columbia to lift their total ban on firearms, though still maintaining their strict gun laws.
Significance Today
This case has much to do with the anti-gun feelings that have been affecting our country of late. It can be clearly seen in this court ruling that a complete and total restriction on firearms is unconstitutional, therefore this could affect future court rulings regarding limitations and restrictions placed on guns.
Overview of Issues Presented in D.C. v. Heller