California legal term
Data in California Criminal Law
Current through 2026 California legislative session
In California criminal law, “Data” 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 “Data” mean in California criminal law?
“Data” means a representation of information, knowledge, facts, concepts, computer software, or computer programs or instructions. (Cal. Penal Code § 502)
Statutes defining or using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.