Stephen Halbrook is a Senior Fellow with the Independent Institute. His latest book is America's Rifle: The Case for the AR-15, though he has also written over 30 law review articles and several other books on the Second Amendment and firearms law more broadly. He has also litigated extensively in the field, often representing groups such as the NRA, National African American Gun Association, Western States Sheriffs' Association, Congress of Racial Equality, and more. He has argued before the U.S. Supreme Court in Castillo v. U.S. (2000), Printz v. U.S. (1997), and U.S. v. Thompson/Center Arms Co. (1992), as well as in front of many other courts. He filed an amicus curiae brief pro bono in support of petitioners in Bruen on behalf of the National African American Gun Association.
Stephen Halbrook
Latest from Stephen Halbrook
Analogical Reasoning and the Second Amendment
In historical inquiry, reasoning by analogy is a commonplace task for any lawyer or judge.
Should Courts Appoint Historians as Experts in Second Amendment Cases?
Courts, not “experts,” should say what the law is.
Did the Fourteenth Amendment Alter the Meaning of the Second Amendment?
1791, not 1868, is the key date for determining the original understanding of the Second Amendment.
"Plain Text"
When the Second Amendment's plain text covers conduct, it is presumptively protected.
The Right to Bear Arms in Historical Context
Founding realities refute New York’s arguments supporting its gun carry ban.
A Surprise Amicus Brief in the Challenge to New York's Gun Carry Ban
Former Judge Luttig's arguments are off base.
New York's Futile Search for Historical Precedents for its Handgun Carry Restrictions
The Massachusetts Model was not a carry ban and required aggressive behavior before it applied.
Does a Medieval English Statute Supersede the Second Amendment?
New York takes a long shot at saving its firearm carry ban.
Don't Know Much About History
New York’s Supreme Court brief on the Second Amendment is flawed.