California legal term
Less lethal weapon in California Criminal Law
Current through 2026 California legislative session
In California criminal law, “Less lethal weapon” 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 “Less lethal weapon” mean in California criminal law?
“Less lethal weapon” means any device that is designed to or that has been converted to expel or propel less lethal ammunition by any action, mechanism, or process for the purpose of incapacitating, immobilizing, or stunning a human being through the infliction of any less than lethal impairment of physical condition, function, or senses, including physical pain or discomfort. (Cal. Penal Code § 16780)
Statutes defining or using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.