Penal Code section 205

A person is guilty of aggravated mayhem when he or she unlawfully, under circumstances manifesting extreme indifference to the physical or psychological well-being of another person, intentionally causes permanent disability or disfigurement of another human being or deprives a human being of a limb, organ, or member of his or her body. For purposes of this section, it is not necessary to prove an intent to kill. Aggravated mayhem is a felony punishable by imprisonment in the state prison for life with the possibility of parole.

Source: Section 205, https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=PEN§ionNum=205. (accessed Jun. 2, 2025).

203
204
205
206
206.1

Last Updated

May 12, 2025

§ 205’s source at ca.gov

Stay Connected

Join thousands of people who receive monthly site updates.

Get Legal Help

The State Bar of California runs a service for finding an attorney in good standing. Initial consultations are usually free or discounted: Certified Lawyer Referral Services Directory

Committed to Public Service

We will always provide free access to the current law. In addition, we provide special support for non-profit, educational, and government users. Through social entrepreneurship, we’re lowering the cost of legal services and increasing citizen access.

Navigate

California:	Codes
Colorado:	C.R.S.
Nevada:	NRS
New York:	Laws
Oregon:	OAR, ORS
Texas:	Statutes
World:	Rome Statute, International Dictionary

Location: https://california.public.law/codes/penal_code_section_205

Original Source: Section 205, https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=PEN§ionNum=205. (last accessed May 12, 2025).