California legal term
Sustained in California Criminal Law
Current through 2026 California legislative session
In California criminal law, “Sustained” 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 “Sustained” mean in California criminal law?
“Sustained” means a final determination by an investigating agency, commission, board, hearing officer, or arbitrator, as applicable, following an investigation and opportunity for an administrative appeal pursuant to Sections 3304 and 3304.5 of the Government Code, that the actions of the peace officer or custodial officer were found to violate law or department policy. (Cal. Penal Code § 832.8)
Statutes defining or using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.