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California criminal charge

Aggravated mayhem in California

Current through 2026 California legislative session

Aggravated mayhem is a criminal offense under California law, defined by Cal. Penal Code § 205. Its classification is not fixed: California assigns a different penalty class depending on the circumstances of the offense. The class that applies — and the sentencing range that follows from it — depends on which statutory variant fits the facts.

Defined by Cal. Penal Code § 205.

How is aggravated mayhem classified in California?

The classification depends on the circumstances:

Classification variants for Aggravated mayhem
VariantClassificationWhen it appliesStatute
Aggravated mayhemFelonyApplies when a person unlawfully, under circumstances manifesting extreme indifference to the physical or psychological well-being of another, intentionally causes permanent disability or disfigurement or deprives another of a limb, organ, or member of the body.Cal. Penal Code § 205undefined

Common questions about aggravated mayhem in California

Is aggravated mayhem a felony or a misdemeanor in California?

Aggravated mayhem is a felony in California under Cal. Penal Code § 205.

Aggravated mayhem: felony (Cal. Penal Code § 205)

Which California statute covers aggravated mayhem?

Aggravated mayhem is governed by Cal. Penal Code § 205.

Legal terms used in this law

This reference is informational and is not legal advice. Penalty ranges are the statutory classification ranges; sentencing in a specific case depends on its facts and history.