The Pizarro case was a dispute between two claimants, Hibberson and Yonge, over the ownership of a ship called The Pizarro. Both parties claimed to have purchased the vessel from its original owner in good faith and without knowledge of any prior sale or claim. In order to determine who had rightful title to the vessel, the Supreme Court examined both sales contracts as well as evidence regarding each party's possession of The Pizarro at different times during their respective claims. Ultimately, it was determined that Hibberson had superior title since his contract contained more specific terms than Yonge's agreement with regard to payment for delivery of The Pizarro and because he took possession before Yonge did. As such, Hibberson was declared by the court as having legal right to own The Pizarro while all other claims were dismissed.

In The Pizarro, Hibberson and Yonge, Claimants (1817), the dissenting opinion argued that the United States had no right to interfere with a foreign nation's internal affairs. In this case, Spain had granted certain rights to citizens of its own country who were living in Peru. These individuals then sold their rights to American citizens without obtaining permission from either Spain or Peru. The majority opinion held that since these transactions occurred between two parties outside of U.S jurisdiction, it was not within the power of Congress or any other branch of government to intervene on behalf of one party over another in such matters. However, Justice Johnson dissented from this view and argued that while it may be true that Congress has no authority over foreign nations' internal affairs per se, they do have an obligation under international law to protect their own citizens when dealing with those countries abroad - even if those dealings are conducted by private persons rather than public officials. He further contended that since both parties involved here were American citizens at the time they entered into contract with each other regarding Peruvian property rights; therefore it is incumbent upon Congress as well as all branches of government within our borders to ensure fair treatment for both sides regardless whether or not said transaction took place beyond our shores