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
The case concerns whether Hayes's conviction for assaulting his wife qualifies as a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
Background and question before the Court
Hayes was convicted of assaulting his wife, causing facial swelling and injuries to her body.
The legal question is whether the statute defining a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence requires the offense to be a domestic‑violence incident, or whether any assault can qualify.
What each side argues
United States (Petitioner)
The United States argues that Hayes's conviction is a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence because the statutory text reads that way and a contrary reading would defeat Congress's purposes.
Mr. Giatrass (Respondent’s Counsel)
Mr. Giatrass contends that, based on the law in 1993‑94, Hayes would not have lost his rights regarding the issue.
What happened at oral argument
Oral argument began at 10:53 a.m. before the Supreme Court of the United States.
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.
- 452078f1fd422fcea9c0-r1-eeb4de82c8612745.pdforal argument transcript
Guide generated September 22, 2026. Automated validation accepted this version.