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California legal term

Endanger public safety in California Criminal Law

Current through 2026 California legislative session

In California criminal law, “Endanger public safety” 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 “Endanger public safety” mean in California criminal law?

“Endanger public safety” means there is a likelihood that the dismissal of the enhancement would result in physical injury or other serious danger to others. (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.