{"code":"PEN","codeName":"Penal Code","section":"16120","citation":"Pen. Code, § 16120","status":"in-force","lawOn":"2026-09-28","headings":[{"name":"PART 6. CONTROL OF DEADLY WEAPONS [16000. - 34400.]","url":"https://blackletter.si/penal-code/part-6"},{"name":"TITLE 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS [16000. - 17360.]","url":"https://blackletter.si/penal-code/part-6/title-1"},{"name":"DIVISION 2. DEFINITIONS [16100. - 17360.]","url":"https://blackletter.si/penal-code/part-6/title-1/division-2"}],"history":"Added by Stats. 2010, Ch. 711, Sec. 6.   (SB 1080)   Effective January 1, 2011.   Operative January 1, 2012, by Sec. 10 of Ch. 711.","effective":"2011-01-01","html":"<p>As used in this part, “abuse” means any of the following: </p><p>(a) Intentionally or recklessly to cause or attempt to cause bodily injury. </p><p>(b) Sexual assault. </p><p>(c) To place a person in reasonable apprehension of imminent serious bodily injury to that person or to another. </p><p>(d) To molest, attack, strike, stalk, destroy personal property, or violate the terms of a domestic violence protective order issued pursuant to Part 4 (commencing with Section <a href=\"/pen/6300\">6300</a>) of Division 10 of the Family Code.</p>","text":"As used in this part, “abuse” means any of the following: (a) Intentionally or recklessly to cause or attempt to cause bodily injury. (b) Sexual assault. (c) To place a person in reasonable apprehension of imminent serious bodily injury to that person or to another. (d) To molest, attack, strike, stalk, destroy personal property, or violate the terms of a domestic violence protective order issued pursuant to Part 4 (commencing with Section 6300) of Division 10 of the Family Code.","otherVersions":[],"url":"https://blackletter.si/penal-code/definitions-16120","source":"California Legislative Information bulk export (pubinfo)"}