California · Penal Code

PEN §1377: When the person injured by an act constituting a misdemeanor has a remedy by a civil action, the offense may be compromised, as provided in Section 1378, except when it is committed as follows: (a) By

Misdemeanor

What this law says, in plain English

This statute allows certain misdemeanors to be settled civilly between the injured party and offender, except when committed against officers, riotously, with intent to commit felony, in violation of court orders, or against protected persons like family members, elders, or children.

Read the full statutory text
When the person injured by an act constituting a misdemeanor has a remedy by a civil action, the offense may be compromised, as provided in Section 1378, except when it is committed as follows: (a) By or upon an officer of justice, while in the execution of the duties of his or her office. (b) Riotously. (c) With an intent to commit a felony. (d) In violation of any court order as described in Section 273.6 or 273.65. (e) By or upon any family or household member, or upon any person when the violation involves any person described in Section 6211 of the Family Code or subdivision (b) of Section 13700 of this code. (f) Upon an elder, in violation of Section 368 of this code or Section 15656 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. (g) Upon a child, as described in Section 647.6 or 11165.6.

Verify at the official source: California legislative text

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This page is legal information, not legal advice. Code text is sourced from official publications and may lag amendments — always confirm at the official source linked above. Plain-English summaries and relationship data are AI-derived and reviewed on an ongoing basis; verify with a licensed attorney before acting.