⚖️ Violent Crimes Defense• Published: September 2, 2026

California Assault & Battery Defense: PC 240, PC 242 & Self-Defense Justification

Legal Review: State Bar of California Defense Counsel Directorate • Southern California Trial Bar

Assault and battery are distinct legal offenses under California law: assault is an attempt to commit a violent injury, whereas battery requires actual, unlawful physical force.

1. CALCRIM 3470 Self-Defense Standards

🛡️ Legal Standard for Self-Defense

Under CALCRIM 3470, a defendant is not guilty of assault or battery if they reasonably believed they were in imminent danger of suffering bodily harm and used no more force than reasonably necessary to defend against that danger.

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Authored by Los Angeles Criminal Defense & DUI Trial Practice

Our trial team represents clients facing felony, misdemeanor, and DUI allegations throughout Los Angeles County and Southern California. We focus on constitutional suppression motions (PC 1538.5), DMV APS hearings, bail relief, and trial litigation.