This educational guide is based on the linked primary sources. It is not a Court publication, is not affiliated with the Court, and is not legal advice.
In brief
Overview
Petitioner JAY SHAWN JOHNSON filed a petition against the State of CALIFORNIA (No. 03‑6539).
Background and question before the Court
The matter before the Court involved petitioner JAY SHAWN JOHNSON versus the State of CALIFORNIA.
During oral argument, a Justice asked, “I thought part of that was that…”.
What each side argues
California
According to California, california presented an argument during oral argument.
What happened at oral argument
Oral argument was heard before the Supreme Court at 10:08 a.m.
What the Court decided
Why it matters
Terms to know
No glossary terms are available for this guide.
Primary sources
Read the source materials on the official site or open the immutable repository copy used for this guide.
- 678c3f9b1b1b6ec06c22-r1-a05d7ad686574641.pdforal argument transcript
Guide generated September 20, 2026. Automated validation accepted this version.