California · Penal Code

PEN §96: Every juror, or person drawn or summoned as a juror, or chosen arbitrator or umpire, or appointed referee, who either: One—Makes any promise or agreement to give a verdict or decision for or against a

Felony

What this law says, in plain English

A juror, arbitrator, umpire, or referee who promises a particular verdict or corruptly receives improper communications or materials about a pending case commits a criminal offense punishable by fine up to $10,000 or imprisonment.

Read the full statutory text

Every juror, or person drawn or summoned as a juror, or chosen arbitrator or umpire, or appointed referee, who either: One—Makes any promise or agreement to give a verdict or decision for or against any party; or, Two—Willfully and corruptly permits any communication to be made to him, or receives any book, paper, instrument, or information relating to any cause or matter pending before him, except according to the regular course of proceedings, is punishable by fine not exceeding ten thousand dollars ($10,000), or by imprisonment pursuant to subdivision (h) of Section 1170.

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.