Landmark Supreme Court Decisions That Changed U.S. Law (2025 Update)
Throughout history, the Supreme Court of the United States has issued rulings that have redefined rights, reshaped public policy, and rebalanced power between the branches of government. Landmark Supreme Court decisions are not just relics of the past; rather, they shape the present and influence future law. In this article, we examine five of the most pivotal decisions — and explain why they still matter in 2025.
1. Brown v. Board of Education (1954)
This historic decision declared that racial segregation in public schools violated the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment. It overturned the “separate but equal” precedent set by Plessy v. Ferguson.
Impact: Brown forced public schools to desegregate and provided a legal foundation for the Civil Rights Movement. Even in 2025, courts and policymakers still reference this ruling in debates about education equity and systemic discrimination.
Learn more about modern implications in our post on education rights under U.S. law.
2. Roe v. Wade (1973) → Overturned by Dobbs v. Jackson (2022)
Roe recognized the constitutional right to abortion under the right to privacy doctrine. However, the Supreme Court overturned it in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.
Impact: As a result of Dobbs overturning Roe, abortion rights in 2025 depend entirely on state laws. This dramatic reversal reminds us that landmark Supreme Court decisions can evolve—or be reversed—when political and judicial landscapes shift.
See our latest post on 2025 state-by-state abortion laws.
3. Miranda v. Arizona (1966)
This decision gave rise to the “Miranda Rights,” requiring law enforcement to inform individuals of their rights during arrest.
Impact: This case reshaped criminal procedure and gave rise to the warning known nationwide. In 2025, legal debates continue over whether digital Miranda warnings (via bodycams or apps) meet constitutional standards.
4. Obergefell v. Hodges (2015)
Obergefell made same-sex marriage legal across all 50 states, framing marriage equality as a constitutional right.
Impact: While Obergefell still stands in 2025, it faces legal and political pressure from several conservative circles. Nevertheless, the decision continues to serve as a cornerstone of LGBTQ+ constitutional protections.
For more on this evolving area, see our post on LGBTQ+ family law developments.
5. New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen (2022)
Bruen struck down New York’s concealed carry law and expanded the interpretation of the Second Amendment. It emphasized that gun regulations must align with historical precedent.
Impact: This ruling ignited legal battles across the U.S. over modern firearm laws. In 2025, it continues to influence court decisions on assault weapon bans and red flag laws.
Stay current with our Second Amendment case tracker.
Why These Landmark Supreme Court Decisions Still Matter
Each of these rulings has fundamentally altered the trajectory of U.S. law. Therefore, understanding them isn’t optional — it’s essential. These decisions not only reflect past struggles but also shape our future. As we look ahead, several upcoming cases could add to this list. For more details, explore our 2025 Supreme Court preview.
FAQ
What makes a Supreme Court decision “landmark”?
A landmark case sets legal precedent, often overturns prior rulings, and significantly changes public policy or constitutional interpretation.
Can a landmark decision be overturned?
Yes. For example, Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022. The Supreme Court has the authority to reverse its own rulings, particularly when its composition changes.
How are new landmark cases selected?
Legal scholars and courts generally classify landmark decisions based on the scope of impact and the precedent they establish.