California § 638.53 - Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, upon an oral application by a peace
Full text of California Public Contract Code - PCC § 638.53 — Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, upon an oral application by a peace, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 638.53. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, upon an oral application by a peace
(a) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, upon an oral application by a peace officer, a magistrate may grant oral approval for the installation and use of a pen register or a trap and trace device, without an order, if he or she determines all of the following: (1) There are grounds upon which an order could be issued under Section 638.52. (2) There is probable cause to believe that an emergency situation exists with respect to the investigation of a crime. (3) There is probable cause to believe that a substantial danger to life or limb exists justifying the authorization for immediate installation and use of a pen register or a trap and trace device before an order authorizing the installation and use can, with due diligence, be submitted and acted upon. (b) (1) By midnight of the second full court day after the pen register or trap and trace device is installed, a written application pursuant to Section 638.52 shall be submitted by the peace officer who made the oral application to the magistrate who orally approved the installation and use of a pen register or trap and trace device. If an order is issued pursuant to Section 638.52, the order shall also recite the time of the oral approval under subdivision (a) and shall be retroactive to the time of the original oral approval. (2) In the absence of an authorizing order pursuant to paragraph (1), the use shall immediately terminate when the information sought is obtained, when the application for the order is denied, or by midnight of the second full court day after the pen register or trap and trace device is installed, whichever is earlier. (c) A provider of a wire or electronic communication service, landlord, custodian, or other person who provides facilities or technical assistance pursuant to this section shall be reasonably compensated by the requesting peace officerâs law enforcement agency for the reasonable expenses incurred in providing the facilities and assistance.
Source: official California text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About California § 638.53
What does Public Contract Code - PCC § 638.53 cover?
Section 638.53 ("Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, upon an oral application by a peace") 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 § 638.53?
A common citation format is "Public Contract Code - PCC § 638.53" (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 § 638.53 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.