California Penal Codes

California's Penal Code is the primary body of law governing criminal offenses in the state. Enacted in 1872 and continuously updated, it defines hundreds of crimes — from theft and assault to murder — along with their elements, penalties, and applicable defenses. Every criminal charge filed in a California court references a specific code section.

However, criminal charges in California are not limited to the Penal Code. Drug offenses are governed by the Health & Safety Code (H&S). Traffic and DUI offenses fall under the Vehicle Code (VC). Crimes related to professional licensing are covered in the Business & Professions Code (BP). Juvenile offenses fall under the Welfare & Institutions Code (WIC). All of these are included in this reference.

If you have been charged under any California code section, the code number on your charging document tells you exactly what the prosecution must prove to convict you. Understanding the elements of the charge is the starting point for building a defense.