Recording Laws
All-Party Consent Required
California is an all-party consent state. All parties must consent to recording a confidential communication. However, recording police in public spaces is protected by the First Amendment.
Statute: Cal. Penal Code § 632
Can Record Police: Yes (in public)
Penalties: Fine up to $2,500 and/or up to 1 year in jail; felony for subsequent offenses
Stop and Identify
No ID Requirement
No state statute requiring identification. However, you must provide ID if driving.
Immigration Policy
Sanctuary State
California Values Act (SB 54) limits state/local cooperation with ICE. Law enforcement cannot inquire about immigration status or participate in civil immigration enforcement.
ICE Cooperation: None
State Resources
State Bar Association
https://www.calbar.ca.gov/Legal Aid
https://www.lawhelpca.org/Remember in California
- ✓ You always have the right to remain silent
- ✓ You can record police in public spaces
- ✓ You do not have to consent to a search
- ✓ If arrested, say "I want a lawyer"
- ! California is an all-party consent state for recording private conversations