Penal Code section 196

Homicide is justifiable when committed by peace officers and those acting by their command in their aid and assistance, under either of the following circumstances:

(a)

In obedience to any judgment of a competent court.

(b)

When the homicide results from a peace officer’s use of force that is in compliance with Section 835a.

Source: Section 196, https://leginfo.­legislature.­ca.­gov/faces/codes_displaySection.­xhtml?lawCode=PEN§ionNum=196.­ (updated Jan. 1, 2020; accessed Jun. 25, 2025).

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Verified:
Jun. 25, 2025

§ 196's source at ca​.gov