California legal term
laser in California Criminal Law
Current through 2026 California legislative session
In California criminal law, “laser” 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 “laser” mean in California criminal law?
“laser” means a device that utilizes the natural oscillations of atoms or molecules between energy levels for generating coherent electromagnetic radiation in the ultraviolet, visible, or infrared region of the spectrum, and when discharged exceeds one milliwatt continuous wave. (Cal. Penal Code § 247.5)
Statutes defining or using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.