California § 5326.5 - For purposes of this chapter,

Full text of California Public Contract Code - PCC § 5326.5 — For purposes of this chapter,, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 5326.5. For purposes of this chapter,

(a) For purposes of this chapter, “written informed consent” means that a person knowingly and intelligently, without duress or coercion, clearly and explicitly manifests consent to the proposed therapy to the treating physician and in writing on the standard consent form prescribed in Section 5326.4. (b) The physician may urge the proposed treatment as the best one, but may not use, in an effort to gain consent, any reward or threat, express or implied, nor any other form of inducement or coercion, including, but not limited to, placing the patient in a more restricted setting, transfer of the patient to another facility, or loss of the patient’s hospital privileges. Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed as in conflict with Section 5326.2. No one shall be denied any benefits for refusing treatment. (c) A person confined shall be deemed incapable of written informed consent if that person cannot understand, or knowingly and intelligently act upon, the information specified in Section 5326.2. (d) A person confined shall not be deemed incapable of refusal solely by virtue of being diagnosed as having a mental health disorder. (e) Written informed consent shall be given only after 24 hours have elapsed from the time the information in Section 5326.2 has been given.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About California § 5326.5

What does Public Contract Code - PCC § 5326.5 cover?

Section 5326.5 ("For purposes of this chapter,") 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 § 5326.5?

A common citation format is "Public Contract Code - PCC § 5326.5" (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 § 5326.5 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.