The Privilege to Keep and Bear Arms: The Second Amendment and Its Interpretation

This important new book presents a clear and systematic analysis of the right or privilege to keep and bear arms within the meaning of the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution. Attorney Warren Freedman provides the answers to the arguments put forth by the National Rifle Association and arms manufacturers and dealers. He carefully annotates the Second Amendment and delineates the historical background to it. How federal and state courts have interpreted the Second Amendment is also scrutinized. Limitations on the privilege to keep and bear arms are examined under the police power of the states and the federal government. This is followed by an analysis of federal and state legislation dealing with gun control. Freedman advances an intriguing idea: civil liability on the part of gun manufacturers, gun distributors, and dealers in firearms and guns. What happens when the victim decides to sue a person or persons other than the actual assailant? His theory of negligent entrustment provides a basis for suit by the victim of a gun assault, just as products liability law and dram shop acts take over.

Whether the reader agrees or disagrees with Freedman's analysis and conclusions, his book is essential reading for anyone concerned with this politically volatile issue.

WARREN FREEDMAN, a member of the New York, Federal, and U.S. Supreme Court Bars, served as corporate counsel to Bristol-Myers Company for 20 years in addition to his private law practice.