What right was established in District of Columbia v. Heller?

The case of District of Columbia v. Heller is a landmark Supreme Court decision that established the individual's right to possess a firearm for lawful purposes, such as self-defense within the home. The Court ruled that the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees an individual's right to own firearms, separate from any service in a militia. This decision highlighted that the right to bear arms is not solely tied to militia service, but rather is an inherent individual right.

This individual right to gun ownership serves as a crucial interpretation of the Second Amendment and reinforces the personal liberty aspect of firearm possession. It set a significant precedent that has influenced subsequent court rulings and gun legislation across the country. Understanding this distinction is vital when analyzing the implications of the Second Amendment and its application in various legal contexts.