California legal term
Matter in California Criminal Law
Current through 2026 California legislative session
In California criminal law, “Matter” 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 “Matter” mean in California criminal law?
“Matter” means any book, magazine, newspaper, or other printed or written material, or any picture, drawing, photograph, motion picture, or other pictorial representation, or any statue or other figure, or any recording, transcription, or mechanical, chemical, or electrical reproduction, or any other article, equipment, machine, or material. “Matter” also means live or recorded telephone messages if transmitted, disseminated, or distributed as part of a commercial transaction. (Cal. Penal Code § 311)
Statutes defining or using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.