What is the maximum sentence for assault in California?

Under Cal. Penal Code § 240 (Misdemeanor), California assault carries a maximum sentence of 6 months and a maximum fine of $1,000.

Does California have a mandatory minimum for assault?

California does not impose a blanket mandatory minimum for simple assault. Specific charges or enhancements may carry their own minimums.

What factors enhance a assault charge in California?

In California, assault penalties can be enhanced by: Against a peace officer or firefighter (Cal. Penal Code § 241(c)).

California Assault Law

California Assault Defense

What you're facing under Cal. Penal Code § 240, how the penalties scale, and the questions your attorney needs to answer, specific to California (CA) law.

Offense Class

Misdemeanor

Maximum Penalty

6 months

Maximum Fine

$1,000

Penalty Range in California

StatuteCal. Penal Code § 240 — Assault

Minimum Penalty

Maximum Penalty6 months

Maximum Fine$1,000

Charge Enhancements

These factors can elevate the charge or penalty in California:

Against a peace officer or firefighter (Cal. Penal Code § 241(c))

California-Specific Detail

Assault is the attempt to commit a battery — no contact required. Simple assault is always a misdemeanor in California.

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Important: This page provides legal INFORMATION about California assault possession law as of the date of publication. Laws change frequently. This is not legal advice. The analysis draws on methods developed by defense attorneys, applied to public data. Your attorney remains the final authority on defense direction.