Lyon's Case
United States Circuit Court for the District of Vermont
15 F. Cas. 1183 (1798)
Relevant factsFree
Congressman Lyon (defendant) was charged with sedition for drafting a document criticizing the federal government and for publishing and aiding publication of a French diplomat's letter also criticizing the government; Lyon admitted to the underlying facts but argued the court lacked jurisdiction, that the conduct shouldn't be criminal, and that the statements were true.
IssueFree
Whether the constitutionality of the Sedition Act is outside the scope of the jury.