Supreme Court of the United States

Graham v. Florida — Thomas, J., dissenting

May 17, 2010560 U.S. 48

Summary

Justice Thomas dissents, arguing the majority's categorical ban on life-without-parole for juvenile nonhomicide offenders conflicts with the original meaning of the Eighth Amendment and overlooks legislative consensus. He contends the Court usurps legislative judgment by declaring sentencing practices disproportionate without national consensus. Justice Alito joins Parts I and III, while Justice Roberts and Stevens concur in the judgment for differing reasons.