Скачать или смотреть What Are the Penalties for "Battery" in California? Penal Code 243PC

Criminal defense attorney Neil Shouse of Shouse California Law Group explains California Penal Code 243 PC – Battery penalties and what you need to know if you're facing charges.

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"Charged with Battery in California? Here's What the Law Actually Says."

Battery charges in California are more complex than many people realize. Under Penal Code 243 PC, battery isn't just about punches or injuries—it includes any unlawful and offensive physical contact, and the penalties vary widely depending on who the alleged victim is and the extent of harm involved.

In this video, criminal defense attorney Neil Shouse walks you through the different levels of battery offenses in California—from simple battery to domestic battery, aggravated battery, and battery on peace officers. Neil explains how simple battery (under PC 242) is usually a misdemeanor with penalties of up to six months in county jail and/or a $2,000 fine.

He then dives into battery on a peace officer, which can be either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on whether the officer needed medical treatment. Most of these offenses are misdemeanors, but felony charges can carry up to three years in jail and a $10,000 fine. Neil explains who counts as a “protected person,” including not just police but also EMTs, firefighters, custodial officers, and even security guards.

For aggravated battery causing serious bodily injury (PC 243d), the stakes are even higher. This “wobbler” offense can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, with felony convictions leading to up to four years in jail and thousands of dollars in fines. Neil defines what qualifies as “serious bodily injury”—like broken bones, concussions, or deep wounds—and how prosecutors decide whether to charge a felony.

He also covers domestic battery (PC 243e), a misdemeanor offense where the alleged victim is a spouse, dating partner, or cohabitant. These charges can result in a year in jail, fines, probation, mandatory domestic violence counseling, and restraining orders—even if the alleged victim had no visible injuries.

Throughout the video, Neil emphasizes the importance of a strong legal defense. Many battery charges stem from misunderstandings, self-defense situations, or false accusations. Neil shares real-world defense strategies and explains how early legal intervention can make a huge difference in the outcome of your case.

If you're facing any battery charge in California, watch this video to learn your rights, understand the legal process, and discover how a skilled defense attorney can help protect your future.

If you or a loved one is charged with a crime we invite you to contact us at Shouse Law Group. We can provide a free consultation in office or by phone. We have local offices in Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley, Pasadena, Long Beach, Orange County, Ventura, San Bernardino, Rancho Cucamonga, Riverside, San Diego, Sacramento, Oakland, San Francisco, San Jose and throughout California.