Every individual who has sufficient ability to provide for his or her spouse‘s support, or who is able to earn the means of such spouse’s support, who willfully abandons and leaves his or her spouse in a destitute condition, or who refuses or neglects to provide such spouse with necessary food, clothing, shelter, or medical attendance, unless by such spouse’s conduct the individual was justified in abandoning such spouse, is guilty of a misdemeanor.

(Amended by Stats. 1976, Ch. 1170.)

criminal case

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Terms Used In California Penal Code 270a

  • spouse: includes "registered domestic partner" as required by §. See California Penal Code 7
  • willfully: when applied to the intent with which an act is done or omitted, implies simply a purpose or willingness to commit the act, or make the omission referred to. See California Penal Code 7
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