Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers | July 7, 2025 | Criminal Defense
The California Penal Code is the comprehensive collection of laws that defines what is considered a crime in the state of California. It also includes the possible punishments for those offenses. Understanding the Penal Code is critical for defendants who have been arrested and anyone currently under investigation.
It’s also helpful for anyone living in or traveling through California to have a basic understanding of commonly charged criminal offenses so they don’t unintentionally break the law.
Commonly Charged Penal Code Sections in California
Anyone facing arrest or prosecution in California will hear references to “Penal Code” numbers; these identify the specific laws that apply to your case. Here are some of the most commonly charged Penal Code (PC) sections and what they actually mean:
PC 187 – Murder
This law makes it a felony to unlawfully kill another person with “malice aforethought,” which means intentionally or with reckless disregard for life.
PC 211 – Robbery
Robbery is defined as taking personal property from someone else, against their will, using force or threats.
PC 245 – Assault with a Deadly Weapon
You can be charged with this crime if you attack or threaten someone using any kind of weapon or a force likely to cause great bodily injury.
PC 261 – Rape
This section covers any type of nonconsensual sexual intercourse, often involving force, threat, or circumstances where the victim is unable to give consent.
PC 273.5 – Domestic Violence
Domestic violence can be charged when someone causes physical harm, even minor, to a spouse, dating partner, co-parent, or other close relationship.
PC 484 – Petty Theft
Petty theft means stealing property valued at $950 or less. Anything above that value could result in grand theft charges.
PC 459 – Burglary
Burglary means entering a building or room, legally or illegally, with the intent to commit theft or any felony.
PC 496 – Receiving Stolen Property
It’s against the law to knowingly receive, buy, or help hide items that you know (or should reasonably know) were stolen.
PC 290 – Sex Offender Registration
This requires anyone convicted of certain sex crimes to register regularly with local law enforcement and notify authorities of any address change.
Understanding the Penal Code can give you a better understanding of the criminal justice system.
Classifications of Crimes Defined by the California Penal Code
The California Penal Code spells out not only the types of crimes but also their possible consequences. Understanding how the law categorizes offenses and what the possible penalties are is helpful for anyone dealing with the criminal system.
Infractions
Infractions are the least serious type of offense under California law and are often handled outside of criminal court. Common examples include traffic tickets and failing to yield to a pedestrian. Infractions are not considered crimes, so they won’t appear on your criminal record and do not result in jail time.
Instead, they usually carry a small fine, points on your driving record, and a possible license suspension depending on the circumstances and your history of violations.
Misdemeanors
A misdemeanor is a less serious crime than a felony under California law. Typical examples include petty theft, simple assault, or minor drug offenses. According to Penal Code 19 PC, unless the law says otherwise, a misdemeanor can result in up to six months in county jail, a $1,000 fine, or both. In the case of an aggravated misdemeanor, jail time could increase to 364 days and a fine of $2,000.
Misdemeanors don’t carry the life-altering effects of felonies, but they can still mean time in jail, financial penalties, and criminal records that can affect many aspects of your life.
Felonies
Felonies are the most severe offenses, like murder, serious violence, or major theft, and the Penal Code sets out harsher punishments accordingly. Sentences usually involve a year or more in state prison and much larger fines.
Wobblers
California is unique for its wobbler laws, which refer to crimes that can be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies. The choice usually depends on the specifics of the case and your prior record. With a wobbler, your lawyer may be able to argue for lesser charges and a less severe penalty
Contact Our San Diego Criminal Defense Attorney for Help
If you’re facing criminal charges, the most important step you can take is to speak to a criminal defense lawyer at Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers as soon as possible. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
For more information, please contact the San Diego criminal defense attorneys at Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers for a free consultation. Give us a call at (619) 357-4977, or visit our convenient location:
Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers San Diego
225 Broadway Suite 1740
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 357-4977
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