California legal term
Childhood trauma in California Criminal Law
Current through 2026 California legislative session
In California criminal law, “Childhood trauma” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the California criminal code.
What does “Childhood trauma” mean in California criminal law?
“Childhood trauma” means that as a minor the person experienced physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, physical or emotional neglect. (Cal. Penal Code § 1385)
Statutes defining or using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.