Cox v. New Hampshire

This First Amendment activity is based on the Supreme Court landmark case Cox v. New Hampshire dealing with freedom of speech and assembly. Using these talking points to start the discussion, argue your position in answer to the question: Are certain restrictions on assembly unconstitutional?

About These Resources

• Analyze the facts and case summary for Cox v. New Hampshire.
• Build arguments for both sides of the issues in the case, starting with these talking points.

How to Use These Resources

This activity is a modified Oxford style debate.

1. To get started, have participants read the Cox v. New Hampshirefacts and case summary.
2. Assign student attorneys to the issues listed in the talking points. They are suggested points– not a script–for the debate. Student attorneys are encouraged to add their own arguments.
3. All other students are jurors who deliberate (and may refer to these talking points) during the open floor debate. They debate among themselves in the large group or smaller groups and come to a verdict after the attorneys present closing arguments.

DISCLAIMER: These resources are created by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts for educational purposes only. They may not reflect the current state of the law, and are not intended to provide legal advice, guidance on litigation, or commentary on any pending case or legislation.

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