California legal term
Malice in California Criminal Law
Current through 2026 California legislative session
In California criminal law, “Malice” 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 “Malice” mean in California criminal law?
“Malice” means an intent to vex, annoy, harm, or injure in any way another person, or to thwart or interfere in any manner with the orderly administration of justice. (Cal. Penal Code § 136)
Statutes defining or using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.