California § 26 - All persons are capable of committing crimes except those belonging to the follow

Full text of California Public Contract Code - PCC § 26 — All persons are capable of committing crimes except those belonging to the follow, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 26. All persons are capable of committing crimes except those belonging to the follow

All persons are capable of committing crimes except those belonging to the following classes: One—Children under the age of 14, in the absence of clear proof that at the time of committing the act charged against them, they knew its wrongfulness. Two—Persons who are mentally incapacitated. Three—Persons who committed the act or made the omission charged under an ignorance or mistake of fact, which disproves any criminal intent. Four—Persons who committed the act charged without being conscious thereof. Five—Persons who committed the act or made the omission charged through misfortune or by accident, when it appears that there was no evil design, intention, or culpable negligence. Six—Persons (unless the crime be punishable with death) who committed the act or made the omission charged under threats or menaces sufficient to show that they had reasonable cause to and did believe their lives would be endangered if they refused.

Source: official California text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About California § 26

What does Public Contract Code - PCC § 26 cover?

Section 26 ("All persons are capable of committing crimes except those belonging to the follow") 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 § 26?

A common citation format is "Public Contract Code - PCC § 26" (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 § 26 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.