Penal Code section 265

(a)

A person who compels another person, unlawfully, against their will, and by force, menace, or duress, to marry them or to marry another person shall be punished by imprisonment pursuant to subdivision (h) of Section 1170.

(b)

This section shall be applied equally regardless of the age of the victim of a forced marriage at the time of the forced marriage.

Source: Section 265, https://leginfo.­legislature.­ca.­gov/faces/codes_displaySection.­xhtml?lawCode=PEN§ionNum=265.­ (updated Jan. 1, 2026; accessed Dec. 22, 2025).

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Verified:
Dec. 22, 2025

§ 265's source at ca​.gov