California Laws and Legal Penalties
Comprehensive legal reference for California. Browse DUI laws, drug possession penalties, theft charges, statutes of limitations, and more. All information is sourced from public state statutes.
Note: This information is for general educational purposes only. Laws change frequently. Always consult a licensed California attorney for advice specific to your situation.
California Quick Facts
- State Capital: Sacramento
- Region: West
- DUI BAC Limit: 0.08%
- Marijuana Status: Legal (recreational)
- Felony Theft Threshold: $950+
- Murder SOL: None
California DUI Laws
| Offense | Penalties |
|---|---|
| First Offense DUI | Up to 6 months jail, $390–$1,000 fine, 6-month suspension |
| Second Offense DUI | 96 hours–1 year jail, $390–$1,000 fine, 2-year revocation |
| Felony DUI Threshold | 4th offense or injury |
| Legal BAC Limit | 0.08% |
DUI school required; ignition interlock device may be required
California Marijuana Laws
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Status | Legal (recreational) |
| Medical Program | Yes |
| Recreational Use | Yes |
| Small Amount Penalty | Legal (up to 1 oz) |
| Large Amount Penalty | Over 28.5g: up to $500 fine |
California legalized recreational marijuana in 2016 (Prop 64)
California Theft Penalties
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Misdemeanor Threshold | Under $950 |
| Felony Threshold | $950+ or more |
| Minimum Sentence | Up to 6 months |
| Maximum Sentence | Up to 3 years |
Prop 47 raised petty theft threshold to $950
California Statutes of Limitations
| Crime Type | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Murder | None |
| Rape / Sexual Assault | None |
| Felony (General) | 3 years |
| Misdemeanor | 1 year |
| Fraud | 4 years |
| Theft | 3 years |
| DUI / DWI | 1 year (misdemeanor), 3 years (felony) |
| Assault | 3 years |
California has extended SOL for childhood sexual abuse