California law
Domestic Violence Laws in California.
California domestic-violence practice is governed primarily by the Domestic Violence Prevention Act (DVPA), which authorizes civil protective orders in family court. California Penal Code provisions create parallel criminal domestic-violence offenses, and firearm-possession restrictions automatically follow many restraining orders.
Last verified: 2026-04-17
State law
Key California Statutes
The DVPA authorizes ex parte and long-term protective orders in family court for victims of domestic abuse, with stay-away, move-out, custody, firearm, and support provisions.
California criminal law defines felony spousal-battery and misdemeanor domestic-battery offenses with significant collateral consequences.
State law
Official Sources
Not Legal Advice
This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in California.
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