California § 152.3 - Any person who reasonably believes that he or she has observed the commission of
Full text of California Public Contract Code - PCC § 152.3 — Any person who reasonably believes that he or she has observed the commission of, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 152.3. Any person who reasonably believes that he or she has observed the commission of
(a) Any person who reasonably believes that he or she has observed the commission of any of the following offenses where the victim is a child under 14 years of age shall notify a peace officer, as defined in Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 830) of Title 3 of Part 2: (1) Murder. (2) Rape. (3) A violation of paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) of Section 288 of the Penal Code. (b) This section shall not be construed to affect privileged relationships as provided by law. (c) The duty to notify a peace officer imposed pursuant to subdivision (a) is satisfied if the notification or an attempt to provide notice is made by telephone or any other means. (d) Failure to notify as required pursuant to subdivision (a) is a misdemeanor and is punishable by a fine of not more than one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500), by imprisonment in a county jail for not more than six months, or by both that fine and imprisonment. (e) The requirements of this section shall not apply to the following: (1) A person who is related to either the victim or the offender, including a spouse, parent, child, brother, sister, grandparent, grandchild, or other person related by consanguinity or affinity. (2) A person who fails to report based on a reasonable mistake of fact. (3) A person who fails to report based on a reasonable fear for his or her own safety or for the safety of his or her family.
Source: official California text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About California § 152.3
What does Public Contract Code - PCC § 152.3 cover?
Section 152.3 ("Any person who reasonably believes that he or she has observed the commission of") is part of the Public Contract Code - PCC, the codified statutory law of California. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite California § 152.3?
A common citation format is "Public Contract Code - PCC § 152.3" (California). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of California law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the California official source linked on this page or consult a licensed California attorney.
How does California § 152.3 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in California can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in California.