{"code":"PEN","codeName":"Penal Code","section":"240","citation":"Pen. Code, § 240","status":"in-force","lawOn":"2026-09-28","headings":[{"name":"PART 1. OF CRIMES AND PUNISHMENTS [25. - 680.4.]","url":"https://blackletter.si/penal-code/part-1"},{"name":"TITLE 8. OF CRIMES AGAINST THE PERSON [187. - 248.]","url":"https://blackletter.si/penal-code/part-1/title-8"},{"name":"CHAPTER 9. Assault and Battery [240. - 248.]","url":"https://blackletter.si/penal-code/part-1/title-8/chapter-9"}],"history":"Enacted 1872.","effective":null,"html":"<p>An assault is an unlawful attempt, coupled with a present ability, to commit a violent injury on the person of another.</p>","text":"An assault is an unlawful attempt, coupled with a present ability, to commit a violent injury on the person of another.","otherVersions":[],"url":"https://blackletter.si/penal-code/assault-and-battery-240","source":"California Legislative Information bulk export (pubinfo)"}