Martin v. Hunter’s Lessee (1816)

1) Link to the Actual Opinion
Read the U.S. Reports opinion (PDF)

2) Summary of the Opinion
Virginia courts resisted enforcing a federal treaty claim to land ownership. The Supreme Court ruled it had appellate authority to review state-court decisions on federal law.

3) Why It Mattered
This decision established the Supreme Court’s power to ensure uniformity of federal law nationwide, even when state courts resisted.

4) What It Provided or Took Away

• Provided: Supreme Court authority to review state cases involving federal law.
• Took Away: States’ ability to have the last word on federal questions.

5) Overreach or Proper Role?
This was a structural necessity. Without it, federal law would vary by state. It fit squarely within Article III’s design.

6) Plain-English Impact Today
If a state court decides an issue under the U.S. Constitution, treaties, or federal statutes, the U.S. Supreme Court can be the final word.

• Federal Review
• State Courts
• Supremacy