Williamson rule (California) · Go Syfert
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Williamson rule in California

80 California opinions name it 3 courts 1981–2026 24 in the last five years

The cases below were cited by California courts in a sentence that names this issue. Sides come from how each citing opinion treated the case (Syfertize flag on that citation), so a case can appear on both: that is where the law is contested. A red or yellow chip is the case's own overall treatment.

Followed or applied (43)

CaseFollowedCited
People v. Murphygreen
cal · 2011 · cited in 57 California opinions naming this issue, 2013–2026
2 sentences

2026(People v. Cockburn (2003) 109 Cal.App.4th 1151, 1157 .) But under “the Williamson rule, if a general statute includes the same conduct as a special statute, the court infers that the Legislature intended that conduct to be prosecuted exclusively under the special statute.” (People v. Murphy (2011) 52 Cal.4th 81, 86 (Murphy).) It applies when “each element of the general statute corresponds to an element on the face of the special statute” or when “it appears from the statutory context that a violation of the special statute will necessarily or commonly result in a violation of the general sta

2026(People v. Cockburn (2003) 109 Cal.App.4th 1151, 1157 .) But under “the Williamson rule, if a general statute includes the same conduct as a special statute, the court infers that the Legislature intended that conduct to be prosecuted exclusively under the special statute.” (People v. Murphy (2011) 52 Cal.4th 81, 86 (Murphy).) It applies when “each element of the general statute corresponds to an element on the face of the special statute” or when “it appears from the statutory context that a violation of the special statute will necessarily or commonly result in a violation of the general sta

3357
People v. Jenkinsgreen
cal · 1980 · cited in 35 California opinions naming this issue, 1981–2026
2 sentences

2026If it appears from the entire context that a violation of the ‘special’ statute will necessarily or commonly result in a violation of the ‘general’ statute, the Williamson rule may apply even though the elements of the general statute are not mirrored on the face of the special statute.” (People v. Jenkins (1980) 28 Cal.3d 494, 502 ; see People v. Mayers, supra, 110 Cal.App.3d 809 [§ 332, the specific misdemeanor statute prohibiting three-card monte, prevailed over § 182, subd. (a)(4), the general felony conspiracy to defraud statute, because § 332 would otherwise be voided]; People v. Ruster

2026If it appears from the entire context that a violation of the ‘special’ statute will necessarily or commonly result in a violation of the ‘general’ statute, the Williamson rule may apply even though the elements of the general statute are not mirrored on the face of the special statute.” (People v. Jenkins (1980) 28 Cal.3d 494, 502 ; see People v. Mayers, supra, 110 Cal.App.3d 809 [§ 332, the specific misdemeanor statute prohibiting three-card monte, prevailed over § 182, subd. (a)(4), the general felony conspiracy to defraud statute, because § 332 would otherwise be voided]; People v. Ruster

2035
In Re Williamsongreen
cal · 1954 · cited in 46 California opinions naming this issue, 1984–2026
2 sentences

2026“The Williamson rule refers to the California Supreme Court’s decision in Williamson, supra, 43 Cal.2d 651 . ‘Under the Williamson rule, if a general statute includes the same conduct as a special statute, the court infers that the Legislature intended that conduct to be prosecuted exclusively under the special statute.

2026“The Williamson rule refers to the California Supreme Court’s decision in Williamson, supra, 43 Cal.2d 651 . ‘Under the Williamson rule, if a general statute includes the same conduct as a special statute, the court infers that the Legislature intended that conduct to be prosecuted exclusively under the special statute.

1246
People v. Watsongreen
cal · 1981 · cited in 24 California opinions naming this issue, 1984–2026
2 sentences

2026(People v. Cockburn (2003) 109 Cal.App.4th 1151, 1157 .) But under “the Williamson rule, if a general statute includes the same conduct as a special statute, the court infers that the Legislature intended that conduct to be prosecuted exclusively under the special statute.” (People v. Murphy (2011) 52 Cal.4th 81, 86 (Murphy).) It applies when “each element of the general statute corresponds to an element on the face of the special statute” or when “it appears from the statutory context that a violation of the special statute will necessarily or commonly result in a violation of the general sta

2026(People v. Cockburn (2003) 109 Cal.App.4th 1151, 1157 .) But under “the Williamson rule, if a general statute includes the same conduct as a special statute, the court infers that the Legislature intended that conduct to be prosecuted exclusively under the special statute.” (People v. Murphy (2011) 52 Cal.4th 81, 86 (Murphy).) It applies when “each element of the general statute corresponds to an element on the face of the special statute” or when “it appears from the statutory context that a violation of the special statute will necessarily or commonly result in a violation of the general sta

924
Mitchell v. Superior Courtgreen
cal · 1989 · cited in 8 California opinions naming this issue, 2016–2026
2 sentences

2026Indeed, in most instances, an overlap of provisions is determinative of the issue of legislative intent and “requires us to give effect to the special provision alone in the face of the dual applicability of the general provision . . . and the special provision . . . .” [Citation.]’ “Absent some indication of legislative intent to the contrary, the Williamson rule applies when (1) ‘each element of the general statute corresponds to an element on the face of the special statute’ or (2) when ‘it appears from the statutory context that a violation of the special statute will necessarily or common

2026Indeed, in most instances, an overlap of provisions is determinative of the issue of legislative intent and “requires us to give effect to the special provision alone in the face of the dual applicability of the general provision . . . and the special provision . . . .” [Citation.]’ “Absent some indication of legislative intent to the contrary, the Williamson rule applies when (1) ‘each element of the general statute corresponds to an element on the face of the special statute’ or (2) when ‘it appears from the statutory context that a violation of the special statute will necessarily or common

58
People v. Henrygreen
calctapp5d · 2018 · cited in 8 California opinions naming this issue, 2019–2026
2 sentences

2026In effect, the special statute is interpreted as creating an exception to the general statute for conduct that otherwise could be prosecuted under either statute.’ (People v. Murphy (2011) 52 Cal.4th 81, 86 (Murphy).) [¶] ‘Absent some indication of legislative intent to the contrary, the Williamson rule applies when (1) “each element of the general statute corresponds to an element on the face of the special statute” or (2) when “it appears from the statutory context that a violation of the special statute will necessarily or commonly result in a violation of the general statute.” ’ ” (People

2026In effect, the special statute is interpreted as creating an exception to the general statute for conduct that otherwise could be prosecuted under either statute.’ (People v. Murphy (2011) 52 Cal.4th 81, 86 (Murphy).) [¶] ‘Absent some indication of legislative intent to the contrary, the Williamson rule applies when (1) “each element of the general statute corresponds to an element on the face of the special statute” or (2) when “it appears from the statutory context that a violation of the special statute will necessarily or commonly result in a violation of the general statute.” ’ ” (People

58
People v. Gilbertgreen
cal · 1969 · cited in 11 California opinions naming this issue, 2011–2026
2 sentences

2026Indeed, in most instances, an overlap of provisions is determinative of the issue of legislative intent and “requires us to give effect to the special provision alone in the face of the dual applicability of the general provision . . . and the special provision . . . .” ’ ” (People v. Murphy (2011) 52 Cal.4th 81, 86 (Murphy).) “Absent some indication of legislative intent to the contrary, the Williamson rule applies when (1) ‘each element of the general statute corresponds to an element on the face of the special statute’ or (2) when ‘it appears from the statutory context that a violation of t

2026Indeed, in most instances, an overlap of provisions is determinative of the issue of legislative intent and “requires us to give effect to the special provision alone in the face of the dual applicability of the general provision . . . and the special provision . . . .” ’ ” (People v. Murphy (2011) 52 Cal.4th 81, 86 (Murphy).) “Absent some indication of legislative intent to the contrary, the Williamson rule applies when (1) ‘each element of the general statute corresponds to an element on the face of the special statute’ or (2) when ‘it appears from the statutory context that a violation of t

411
People v. Cockburngreen
calctapp · 2003 · cited in 5 California opinions naming this issue, 2019–2026
2 sentences

2026(People v. Cockburn (2003) 109 Cal.App.4th 1151, 1157 .) But under “the Williamson rule, if a general statute includes the same conduct as a special statute, the court infers that the Legislature intended that conduct to be prosecuted exclusively under the special statute.” (People v. Murphy (2011) 52 Cal.4th 81, 86 (Murphy).) It applies when “each element of the general statute corresponds to an element on the face of the special statute” or when “it appears from the statutory context that a violation of the special statute will necessarily or commonly result in a violation of the general sta

2026(People v. Cockburn (2003) 109 Cal.App.4th 1151, 1157 .) But under “the Williamson rule, if a general statute includes the same conduct as a special statute, the court infers that the Legislature intended that conduct to be prosecuted exclusively under the special statute.” (People v. Murphy (2011) 52 Cal.4th 81, 86 (Murphy).) It applies when “each element of the general statute corresponds to an element on the face of the special statute” or when “it appears from the statutory context that a violation of the special statute will necessarily or commonly result in a violation of the general sta

45
People v. Walkergreen
cal · 2002 · cited in 7 California opinions naming this issue, 2013–2024
2 sentences

2024In effect, the special statute is interpreted as creating an exception to the general statute for conduct that otherwise could be prosecuted under either statute.” (People v. Murphy (2011) 52 Cal.4th 81, 86 .) Accordingly, “[a]bsent some indication of legislative intent to the contrary, the Williamson rule applies when (1) ‘each element of the general statute corresponds to an element on the face of the special statute’ or (2) when ‘it appears from the statutory context that a violation of the special statute will necessarily or commonly result in a violation of the general statute.’ ” (Ibid.)

2024In effect, the special statute is interpreted as creating an exception to the general statute for conduct that otherwise could be prosecuted under either statute.” (People v. Murphy (2011) 52 Cal.4th 81, 86 .) Accordingly, “[a]bsent some indication of legislative intent to the contrary, the Williamson rule applies when (1) ‘each element of the general statute corresponds to an element on the face of the special statute’ or (2) when ‘it appears from the statutory context that a violation of the special statute will necessarily or commonly result in a violation of the general statute.’ ” (Ibid.)

37
People v. Medelezgreen
calctapp · 2016 · cited in 3 California opinions naming this issue, 2016–2021
2 sentences

2021Indeed, applying for aid under a false identity, which entails signing eligibility questionnaires and pay certification cards with a false name, is apparently one of the most common forms of unemployment insurance fraud.’ ( Ruster, supra, at p. 699 .)” (People v. Murphy (2011) 52 Cal.4th 81 , 86–88.) In short, the Williamson rule does not apply when “a felony statute requires a more culpable mental state than a misdemeanor statute proscribing the same behavior.” (Hudson v. Superior Court (2017) 7 Cal.App.5th 999, 1007 .) “On the other hand, we do not assume the Legislature intended to preclude

2021Indeed, applying for aid under a false identity, which entails signing eligibility questionnaires and pay certification cards with a false name, is apparently one of the most common forms of unemployment insurance fraud.’ ( Ruster, supra, at p. 699 .)” (People v. Murphy (2011) 52 Cal.4th 81 , 86–88.) In short, the Williamson rule does not apply when “a felony statute requires a more culpable mental state than a misdemeanor statute proscribing the same behavior.” (Hudson v. Superior Court (2017) 7 Cal.App.5th 999, 1007 .) “On the other hand, we do not assume the Legislature intended to preclude

33
People v. Rustergreen
cal · 1976 · cited in 8 California opinions naming this issue, 1992–2026
2 sentences

2026If it appears from the entire context that a violation of the ‘special’ statute will necessarily or commonly result in a violation of the ‘general’ statute, the Williamson rule may apply even though the elements of the general statute are not mirrored on the face of the special statute.” (People v. Jenkins (1980) 28 Cal.3d 494, 502 ; see People v. Mayers, supra, 110 Cal.App.3d 809 [§ 332, the specific misdemeanor statute prohibiting three-card monte, prevailed over § 182, subd. (a)(4), the general felony conspiracy to defraud statute, because § 332 would otherwise be voided]; People v. Ruster

2026If it appears from the entire context that a violation of the ‘special’ statute will necessarily or commonly result in a violation of the ‘general’ statute, the Williamson rule may apply even though the elements of the general statute are not mirrored on the face of the special statute.” (People v. Jenkins (1980) 28 Cal.3d 494, 502 ; see People v. Mayers, supra, 110 Cal.App.3d 809 [§ 332, the specific misdemeanor statute prohibiting three-card monte, prevailed over § 182, subd. (a)(4), the general felony conspiracy to defraud statute, because § 332 would otherwise be voided]; People v. Ruster

28
Hudson v. Superior Court of Riverside Countygreen
calctapp · 2017 · cited in 5 California opinions naming this issue, 2019–2026
2 sentences

2026If it appears from the entire context that a violation of the ‘special’ statute will necessarily or commonly result in a violation of the ‘general’ statute, the Williamson rule may apply even though the elements of the general statute are not mirrored on the face of the special statute.” (People v. Jenkins (1980) 28 Cal.3d 494, 502 ; see People v. Mayers, supra, 110 Cal.App.3d 809 [§ 332, the specific misdemeanor statute prohibiting three-card monte, prevailed over § 182, subd. (a)(4), the general felony conspiracy to defraud statute, because § 332 would otherwise be voided]; People v. Ruster

2026If it appears from the entire context that a violation of the ‘special’ statute will necessarily or commonly result in a violation of the ‘general’ statute, the Williamson rule may apply even though the elements of the general statute are not mirrored on the face of the special statute.” (People v. Jenkins (1980) 28 Cal.3d 494, 502 ; see People v. Mayers, supra, 110 Cal.App.3d 809 [§ 332, the specific misdemeanor statute prohibiting three-card monte, prevailed over § 182, subd. (a)(4), the general felony conspiracy to defraud statute, because § 332 would otherwise be voided]; People v. Ruster

25
People v. Powersgreen
calctapp · 2004 · cited in 3 California opinions naming this issue, 2023–2026
2 sentences

2026A defendant who acts in concert with others to ‘. . . steal merchandise from one or more 10 merchant’s premises or online marketplace with the intent to sell, exchange, or return the merchandise for value’ cannot help but risk prosecution for conspiracy to commit petty theft. ([§] 490.4[, subd. ](a)(1).) It is no coincidence that in the present case, the People first charged Alberry with organized retail theft.” The People disagree, arguing that the Williamson rule does not apply to Alberry’s case “because the conspiracy and organized retail theft statutes target different criminal acts and le

2026A defendant who acts in concert with others to ‘. . . steal merchandise from one or more 10 merchant’s premises or online marketplace with the intent to sell, exchange, or return the merchandise for value’ cannot help but risk prosecution for conspiracy to commit petty theft. ([§] 490.4[, subd. ](a)(1).) It is no coincidence that in the present case, the People first charged Alberry with organized retail theft.” The People disagree, arguing that the Williamson rule does not apply to Alberry’s case “because the conspiracy and organized retail theft statutes target different criminal acts and le

23
People v. Mullinsgreen
calctapp5d · 2018 · cited in 2 California opinions naming this issue, 2025–2026
2 sentences

2026(Ibid.; see People v. Mullins (2018) 19 Cal.App.5th 594, 608 [finding robbery convictions not precluded by more specific identity theft statute because each element of robbery statute did not correspond to an element of the identity theft statute, and because violations of the identity theft statute would not commonly result in violation of the robbery statute due to the robbery statute’s force or fear requirement].) Here, application of the Williamson test, as described in Murphy, supports defendant’s argument that he could not be prosecuted under section 594 for damaging the Tuolumne County

2026(Ibid.; see People v. Mullins (2018) 19 Cal.App.5th 594, 608 [finding robbery convictions not precluded by more specific identity theft statute because each element of robbery statute did not correspond to an element of the identity theft statute, and because violations of the identity theft statute would not commonly result in violation of the robbery statute due to the robbery statute’s force or fear requirement].) Here, application of the Williamson test, as described in Murphy, supports defendant’s argument that he could not be prosecuted under section 594 for damaging the Tuolumne County

22
People v. Mooregreen
calctapp5d · 2018 · cited in 2 California opinions naming this issue, 2025–2026
2 sentences

2026(See, e.g., People v. Woods, supra, 109 Cal.App.5th at p. 999 [finding the Williamson rule applicable despite the fact the general and specific statutes used different wording because, functionally, the requisite mental states were the same].) The Penal Code defines “ ‘[m]alice’ ” and “ ‘maliciously’ ” in part on mere “intent” grounds, calling for proof of “an intent to do a wrongful act.” (§ 7, subd. (b)(4); see People v. Moore (2018) 19 Cal.App.5th 889, 895 [finding the term “ ‘maliciously’ ” to only require a general intent to do the proscribed act because “the term ‘maliciously’ does not i

2026(See, e.g., People v. Woods, supra, 109 Cal.App.5th at p. 999 [finding the Williamson rule applicable despite the fact the general and specific statutes used different wording because, functionally, the requisite mental states were the same].) The Penal Code defines “ ‘[m]alice’ ” and “ ‘maliciously’ ” in part on mere “intent” grounds, calling for proof of “an intent to do a wrongful act.” (§ 7, subd. (b)(4); see People v. Moore (2018) 19 Cal.App.5th 889, 895 [finding the term “ ‘maliciously’ ” to only require a general intent to do the proscribed act because “the term ‘maliciously’ does not i

22
People v. Vegagreen
calctapp · 1995 · cited in 2 California opinions naming this issue, 2021–2022
2 sentences

2022(People v. Sloan (2007) 42 Cal.4th 110, 119 ; People v. Vega (1995) 33 Cal.App.4th 706, 710 [“Section 273.5 was enacted to expand its predecessor section, a ‘wife beating’ statute (former § 273d)”].) Former section 273d prohibited corporal injury to a wife.

2022(People v. Sloan (2007) 42 Cal.4th 110, 119 ; People v. Vega (1995) 33 Cal.App.4th 706, 710 [“Section 273.5 was enacted to expand its predecessor section, a ‘wife beating’ statute (former § 273d)”].) Former section 273d prohibited corporal injury to a wife.

22
People v. Cruz Villagrangreen
calctapp · 2016 · cited in 2 California opinions naming this issue, 2021–2022
2 sentences

2022(People v. Villagran (2016) 5 Cal.App.5th 880, 896 [“This distinction makes it apparent that ‘the statues cover different conduct,’ and so the Williamson rule does not apply”].) The Legislature added more protection for victims without changing criminal liability for other more serious crimes.

2022(People v. Villagran (2016) 5 Cal.App.5th 880, 896 [“This distinction makes it apparent that ‘the statues cover different conduct,’ and so the Williamson rule does not apply”].) The Legislature added more protection for victims without changing criminal liability for other more serious crimes.

22
People v. Sungreen
calctapp5d · 2018 · cited in 2 California opinions naming this issue, 2019–2019
2 sentences

2019(Ibid.) On appeal, the defendant argued that prosecution for the general offense of assault with a deadly weapon (§ 245) was precluded by the specific statutes addressing unlawful use of a laser (§ 247.5).6 The Court of Appeal agreed. ( Sun, supra, at p. 950 .) The court determined that the statutes at issue in Sun contained disparate elements.

2019(Ibid.) On appeal, the defendant argued that prosecution for the general offense of assault with a deadly weapon (§ 245) was precluded by the specific statutes addressing unlawful use of a laser (§ 247.5).6 The Court of Appeal agreed. ( Sun, supra, at p. 950 .) The court determined that the statutes at issue in Sun contained disparate elements.

22
People v. Artisgreen
calctapp · 1993 · cited in 2 California opinions naming this issue, 2015–2016
22
People v. Breyergreen
calctapp · 1934 · cited in 2 California opinions naming this issue, 2013–2014
22
People v. Pruntygreen
cal · 2015 · cited in 2 California opinions naming this issue, 2020–2024
2 sentences

2024(See People v. Prunty (2015) 62 Cal.4th 59, 71 (Prunty).) In interpreting a statute, our primary goal “ ‘is to determine the Legislature's intent so as to effectuate the law's purpose.’ ” (People v. Ruiz (2018) 4 Cal.5th 1100, 1105 .) 2.

2024(See People v. Prunty (2015) 62 Cal.4th 59, 71 (Prunty).) In interpreting a statute, our primary goal “ ‘is to determine the Legislature's intent so as to effectuate the law's purpose.’ ” (People v. Ruiz (2018) 4 Cal.5th 1100, 1105 .) 2.

12
People v. Radergreen
calctapp · 2014 · cited in 2 California opinions naming this issue, 2015–2024
2 sentences

2024In People v. Rader (2014) 228 Cal.App.4th 184 (Rader), the Second District Court of Appeal identified three potential conflicts between the provisions in a general versus a specific statute that could trigger the Williamson rule as follows: (1) a conflict in potential sentences; (2) a conflict in the applicable statutes of limitations; and (3) a conflict in the 16 required elements of each offense.

2024In People v. Rader (2014) 228 Cal.App.4th 184 (Rader), the Second District Court of Appeal identified three potential conflicts between the provisions in a general versus a specific statute that could trigger the Williamson rule as follows: (1) a conflict in potential sentences; (2) a conflict in the applicable statutes of limitations; and (3) a conflict in the 16 required elements of each offense.

12
In Re Shullgreen
cal · 1944 · cited in 2 California opinions naming this issue, 1999–2014
12
Bradwell v. Superior Courtgreen
calctapp · 2007 · cited in 2 California opinions naming this issue, 2014–2014
12
People v. Robertsongreen
calctapp · 1990 · cited in 2 California opinions naming this issue, 1999–2013
12
Abatti v. Eldridgegreen
calctapp · 1980 · cited in 1 California opinions naming this issue, 2026–2026
11
People v. Mayersgreen
calctapp · 1980 · cited in 1 California opinions naming this issue, 2026–2026
11
People v. Irwingreen
calctapp · 1984 · cited in 1 California opinions naming this issue, 2026–2026
11
Nalwa v. Cedar Fair, L.P.green
cal · 2012 · cited in 1 California opinions naming this issue, 2026–2026
11
People v. Wilkersongreen
calctapp · 1992 · cited in 1 California opinions naming this issue, 2024–2024
11
People v. Johnsongreen
calctapp · 1995 · cited in 1 California opinions naming this issue, 2024–2024
11
People v. Haydongreen
calctapp · 1951 · cited in 1 California opinions naming this issue, 2023–2023
11
People v. DeLaCruzgreen
calctapp · 1993 · cited in 1 California opinions naming this issue, 2022–2022
11
People v. Josephgreen
calctapp5d · 2019 · cited in 1 California opinions naming this issue, 2022–2022
11
People v. Escarcegagreen
calctapp · 1974 · cited in 1 California opinions naming this issue, 2021–2021
11
People v. Torresgreen
calctapp · 1957 · cited in 1 California opinions naming this issue, 2021–2021
11
People v. Griffinigreen
calctapp · 1998 · cited in 1 California opinions naming this issue, 2019–2019
11
People v. Butlergreen
calctapp · 1996 · cited in 1 California opinions naming this issue, 2017–2017
11
People v. Yeatsgreen
calctapp · 1977 · cited in 1 California opinions naming this issue, 2016–2016
11
People v. Jonesgreen
cal · 1998 · cited in 1 California opinions naming this issue, 2016–2016
11

Distinguished, questioned or overruled (0)

CaseNegativeCited
No negative-treatment citations attached to this issue in California. Read the followed side critically anyway.

Also cited on this issue (37)

CaseCitedYears
People v. Charles G. (In re Charles G.) green
calctapp5d · 2017
2 sentences

2021Indeed, applying for aid under a false identity, which entails signing eligibility questionnaires and pay certification cards with a false name, is apparently one of the most common forms of unemployment insurance fraud.’ ( Ruster, supra, at p. 699 .)” (People v. Murphy (2011) 52 Cal.4th 81 , 86–88.) In short, the Williamson rule does not apply when “a felony statute requires a more culpable mental state than a misdemeanor statute proscribing the same behavior.” (Hudson v. Superior Court (2017) 7 Cal.App.5th 999, 1007 .) “On the other hand, we do not assume the Legislature intended to preclude

2021Indeed, applying for aid under a false identity, which entails signing eligibility questionnaires and pay certification cards with a false name, is apparently one of the most common forms of unemployment insurance fraud.’ ( Ruster, supra, at p. 699 .)” (People v. Murphy (2011) 52 Cal.4th 81 , 86–88.) In short, the Williamson rule does not apply when “a felony statute requires a more culpable mental state than a misdemeanor statute proscribing the same behavior.” (Hudson v. Superior Court (2017) 7 Cal.App.5th 999, 1007 .) “On the other hand, we do not assume the Legislature intended to preclude

42021–2026
Finn v. Superior Court green
calctapp · 1984
2 sentences

2018The Williamson rule gets its name from In re Williamson, supra, 43 Cal.2d 651 , 276 P.2d 593 , which held that when a general statute includes the same matter as a more specific statute, the latter will be considered an exception to the former. ( Id . at p. 654, 276 P.2d 593 .) The rule "precludes prosecution under a general *699 statute when a more specific one describes the conduct involved. [Citations.]" ( Finn v. Superior Court (1984) 156 Cal.App.3d 268 , 271, 202 Cal.Rptr. 732 .) It is a bedrock rule of statutory construction; every jurisdiction has its own analog to the Williamson rule.

2018The Williamson rule gets its name from In re Williamson, supra, 43 Cal.2d 651 , 276 P.2d 593 , which held that when a general statute includes the same matter as a more specific statute, the latter will be considered an exception to the former. ( Id . at p. 654, 276 P.2d 593 .) The rule "precludes prosecution under a general *699 statute when a more specific one describes the conduct involved. [Citations.]" ( Finn v. Superior Court (1984) 156 Cal.App.3d 268 , 271, 202 Cal.Rptr. 732 .) It is a bedrock rule of statutory construction; every jurisdiction has its own analog to the Williamson rule.

32018–2020
In Re Tobacco II Cases green
cal · 2009
2 sentences

2017A. General Legal Standards " 'Questions of statutory interpretation are, of course, pure matters of law upon which we may exercise our independent judgment.' " ( In re Tobacco II Cases (2009) 46 Cal.4th 298 , 311, 93 Cal.Rptr.3d 559 , 207 P.3d 20 .) "[I]f a general statute includes the same conduct as a special statute, the court infers that the Legislature intended that conduct to be prosecuted exclusively under the special statute." ( People v. Murphy (2011) 52 Cal.4th 81 , 86, 127 Cal.Rptr.3d 78 , 253 P.3d 1216 ( Murphy ).) This " Williamson rule," first formulated in In re Williamson (1954

2017A. General Legal Standards " 'Questions of statutory interpretation are, of course, pure matters of law upon which we may exercise our independent judgment.' " ( In re Tobacco II Cases (2009) 46 Cal.4th 298 , 311, 93 Cal.Rptr.3d 559 , 207 P.3d 20 .) "[I]f a general statute includes the same conduct as a special statute, the court infers that the Legislature intended that conduct to be prosecuted exclusively under the special statute." ( People v. Murphy (2011) 52 Cal.4th 81 , 86, 127 Cal.Rptr.3d 78 , 253 P.3d 1216 ( Murphy ).) This " Williamson rule," first formulated in In re Williamson (1954

32017–2017
People v. Montalvo green
calctapp5d · 2019
2 sentences

2026(Montalvo, supra, 36 Cal.App.5th at p. 622 .) The court continued, “Because the Williamson rule ‘prohibits prosecution under a general statute when the conduct at issue is covered under a more specific statute’ [citation], a necessary predicate to the application of the rule is that the defendant’s conduct fits the elements of the assertedly more specific statute.” (Ibid., original italics.) It rejected Montalvo’s argument because his “conduct [wa]s not covered by the statutes defendant relies upon and thus, defendant could not be convicted under either statute.” (Ibid.) Section 530 required h

2026(Montalvo, supra, 36 Cal.App.5th at p. 622 .) The court continued, “Because the Williamson rule ‘prohibits prosecution under a general statute when the conduct at issue is covered under a more specific statute’ [citation], a necessary predicate to the application of the rule is that the defendant’s conduct fits the elements of the assertedly more specific statute.” (Ibid., original italics.) It rejected Montalvo’s argument because his “conduct [wa]s not covered by the statutes defendant relies upon and thus, defendant could not be convicted under either statute.” (Ibid.) Section 530 required h

22019–2026
People v. Alvarez green
calctapp · 2002
2 sentences

2024(See People v. Torres (2002) 102 Cal.App.4th 1053 , 1056–1061 (Torres); People v. Alvarez (2002) 100 Cal.App.4th 1170 , 1177–1178 (Alvarez); People v. Johnson (1995) 40 Cal.App.4th 24, 26 (Johnson); People v. Hord (1993) 15 Cal.App.4th 711 , 716–721 (Hord); People v. Wilkerson (1992) 6 Cal.App.4th 1571, 1581 (Wilkerson).) Commonly referred to as the Williamson rule, prosecution under a general criminal statute may be precluded when a more specific prohibition applies.

2024(See People v. Torres (2002) 102 Cal.App.4th 1053 , 1056–1061 (Torres); People v. Alvarez (2002) 100 Cal.App.4th 1170 , 1177–1178 (Alvarez); People v. Johnson (1995) 40 Cal.App.4th 24, 26 (Johnson); People v. Hord (1993) 15 Cal.App.4th 711 , 716–721 (Hord); People v. Wilkerson (1992) 6 Cal.App.4th 1571, 1581 (Wilkerson).) Commonly referred to as the Williamson rule, prosecution under a general criminal statute may be precluded when a more specific prohibition applies.

22022–2024
People v. Hord green
calctapp · 1993
2 sentences

2024(See People v. Torres (2002) 102 Cal.App.4th 1053 , 1056–1061 (Torres); People v. Alvarez (2002) 100 Cal.App.4th 1170 , 1177–1178 (Alvarez); People v. Johnson (1995) 40 Cal.App.4th 24, 26 (Johnson); People v. Hord (1993) 15 Cal.App.4th 711 , 716–721 (Hord); People v. Wilkerson (1992) 6 Cal.App.4th 1571, 1581 (Wilkerson).) Commonly referred to as the Williamson rule, prosecution under a general criminal statute may be precluded when a more specific prohibition applies.

2024(See People v. Torres (2002) 102 Cal.App.4th 1053 , 1056–1061 (Torres); People v. Alvarez (2002) 100 Cal.App.4th 1170 , 1177–1178 (Alvarez); People v. Johnson (1995) 40 Cal.App.4th 24, 26 (Johnson); People v. Hord (1993) 15 Cal.App.4th 711 , 716–721 (Hord); People v. Wilkerson (1992) 6 Cal.App.4th 1571, 1581 (Wilkerson).) Commonly referred to as the Williamson rule, prosecution under a general criminal statute may be precluded when a more specific prohibition applies.

22022–2024
People v. Korwin green
calctapp5d · 2019
2 sentences

2023In enacting section 288.3, the electorate expressed its intent to protect children from Internet predators. 2 (People v. Korwin (2019) 36 Cal.App.5th 682, 689-690 .) As a general rule, the Williamson rule is simply a means of 2 The Sexual Predator Punishment and Control Act: Jessica’s Law (Prop. 83, as approved by voters, Gen.

2023In enacting section 288.3, the electorate expressed its intent to protect children from Internet predators. 2 (People v. Korwin (2019) 36 Cal.App.5th 682, 689-690 .) As a general rule, the Williamson rule is simply a means of 2 The Sexual Predator Punishment and Control Act: Jessica’s Law (Prop. 83, as approved by voters, Gen.

22023–2023
People v. Sloan green
cal · 2007
2 sentences

2022(People v. Sloan (2007) 42 Cal.4th 110, 119 ; People v. Vega (1995) 33 Cal.App.4th 706, 710 [“Section 273.5 was enacted to expand its predecessor section, a ‘wife beating’ statute (former § 273d)”].) Former section 273d prohibited corporal injury to a wife.

2022(People v. Sloan (2007) 42 Cal.4th 110, 119 ; People v. Vega (1995) 33 Cal.App.4th 706, 710 [“Section 273.5 was enacted to expand its predecessor section, a ‘wife beating’ statute (former § 273d)”].) Former section 273d prohibited corporal injury to a wife.

22021–2022
People v. Whitmer green
cal · 2014
2 sentences

2021(See People v. Cockburn (2003) 109 Cal.App.4th 1151, 1159-1160 [Williamson rule does not apply when “competing provisions are a wash” in severity of penalty imposed]; People v. Lucero (2019) 41 Cal.App.5th 370 , 408-410 [same]; see Mitchell v. Superior Court, supra, 49 Cal.3d at p. 1250 .) 17 II Defendant contends, quoting the caption of his brief: “Because all of appellant’s grand theft convictions were committed pursuant to a single continuing scheme, those based upon acts committed prior to the Supreme Court’s decision in People v. Whitmer (2014) 59 Cal.4th 733 [(Whitmer)] must be combined

2021(See People v. Cockburn (2003) 109 Cal.App.4th 1151, 1159-1160 [Williamson rule does not apply when “competing provisions are a wash” in severity of penalty imposed]; People v. Lucero (2019) 41 Cal.App.5th 370 , 408-410 [same]; see Mitchell v. Superior Court, supra, 49 Cal.3d at p. 1250 .) 17 II Defendant contends, quoting the caption of his brief: “Because all of appellant’s grand theft convictions were committed pursuant to a single continuing scheme, those based upon acts committed prior to the Supreme Court’s decision in People v. Whitmer (2014) 59 Cal.4th 733 [(Whitmer)] must be combined

22021–2021
People v. Mandell green
calctapp · 1939
2 sentences

2020Section 266a Section 266a provides in full, “Each person who, within this state, takes any person against his or her will and without his or her consent, or with his or her consent procured by fraudulent inducement or misrepresentation, for the purpose of prostitution, as defined in subdivision (b) of Section 647, is punishable by imprisonment in the state prison, and a fine not exceeding ten thousand dollars ($10,000).”13 A violation of section 266a is punishable by 16 months, two years, or three years in prison. (§ 18, subd. (a).) People v. Mandell (1939) 35 Cal.App.2d 368 (Mandell) is the o

2020(Id. at p. 791, fn. 3.) We agree with Henry and consider the merits of Harper’s Williamson argument. 13 Section 647, subdivision (b)(4), provides that “ ‘prostitution’ includes any lewd act between persons for money or other consideration.” 14 When Mandell was decided, section 266a provided that it was a crime to take “ ‘any female person.’ ” (Mandell, supra, 35 Cal.App.2d at p. 372 .) The statute now applies to the taking of “any person.” (§ 266a.) 14 b.

22016–2020
People v. Chardon green
calctapp · 1999
22011–2018
cluster 741156 green
ca9 · 1997
22017–2017
People v. Grimes green
cal · 2016
22017–2017
People v. Swann green
calctapp · 1963
22015–2016
Daar v. Yellow Cab Co. green
cal · 1967
12026–2026
People v. Gonzalez green
cal · 2017
12026–2026
People v. Van Hoek green
calctapp · 1988
12024–2024
People v. Torres green
calctapp · 2002
12024–2024
People v. Ruiz green
cal · 2018
12024–2024
People v. Jones green
cal · 1990
12024–2024
People v. Hood green
cal · 1969
12023–2023
People v. Jones green
calctapp · 2003
12020–2020
People v. Bell green
calctapp · 2009
12020–2020
People v. Vazquez neutral
calctapp · 1991
12020–2020
People v. Martinez green
cal · 1999
12020–2020
People v. Bhasin green
calctapp · 2009
12019–2019
People v. Grinnell neutral
calctapp · 1968
12019–2019
People v. Jones green
calctapp · 1967
12019–2019
People v. Garcia green
cal · 2006
12019–2019
Williamson v. United States green
scotus · 1994
12017–2017
Crawford v. Washington green
scotus · 2004
12016–2016
People v. Leal green
cal · 2004
12016–2016
People v. Fletcher green
cal · 1996
12016–2016
People v. Bradley green
calctapp · 2012
12016–2016
People v. Shockley green
cal · 2013
12016–2016
People v. McCurdy green
cal · 2014
12016–2016
People v. Fernando C. green
calctapp · 2014
12015–2015

Statutes the citing opinions construe

CA § Cal. Vehicle Code § 10501 (14) CA § Cal. Penal Code § 118 (8) CA § Cal. Penal Code § 182 (8) CA § Cal. Penal Code § 211 (7) CA § Cal. Vehicle Code § 20 (6) CA § Cal. Evidence Code § 452 (5) CA § Cal. Penal Code § 115 (5) CA § Cal. Penal Code § 529 (5) CA § Cal. Vehicle Code § 40504 (5) CA § Cal. Evidence Code § 1101 (4) CA § Cal. Government Code § 76000 (4) CA § Cal. Penal Code § 245 (4)

Counted by distinct opinions that both name this issue and are annotated to the section; sections every opinion cites regardless of issue are not filtered here, so read the counts against the total above.

Where else courts name it

CA 80 (1981–2026) FL 12 (1977–2020) LA 11 (1994–2026) MD 6 (1996–2023) CO 5 (1998–2022) WA 5 (2000–2025) GA 4 (2008–2019) OH 4 (2008–2026) NJ 3 (1986–1990) NM 3 (1998–1999) HI 3 (2001–2024) DC 3 (1992–2008) MI 3 (1989–2016) MN 2 (2006–2010) SC 2 (2012–2016) PA 2 (1970–2022) ND 2 (2024–2025) AR 2 (2009–2016) OK 2 (1979–1994)

Opinions by the citing court's state. A doctrine retained in one state and abandoned in another shows up here as a year span that stalls.

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