Johnson v. United States

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.

Briefs and Documents

Merits Briefs

• Brief for Petitioner Curtis Darnell Johnson
• Brief for Respondent United States of America
• Reply Brief for Petitioner Curtis Darnell Johnson

Amicus Briefs

• Brief for National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers in Support of Petitioner

Certiorari-stage documents

• Opinion below (11th Circuit)
• Petition for certiorari
• Brief in opposition
• Petitioner’s reply