California legal term

Sexual orientation in California Criminal Law

Current through 2026 California legislative session

In California criminal law, “Sexual orientation” 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 “Sexual orientation” mean in California criminal law?

“Sexual orientation” means heterosexuality, homosexuality, or bisexuality. (Cal. Penal Code § 422.56)

Statutes defining or using this term

Cal. Penal Code § 422.56

Related terms in the same statutes

gender
Religion
victim
Disability
Offense
Because of
Nationality
Gender expression
Facility
public agency
Property
Juvenile

This reference is informational and is not legal advice.