California legal term
Minor in California Criminal Law
Current through 2026 California legislative session
In California criminal law, “Minor” 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 “Minor” mean in California criminal law?
“Minor” means a person less than 18 years of age. (Cal. Penal Code § 236.1)
Statutes defining or using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.