Family Violence (Article 242 bis of the Penal Code of Baja California):
This crime is configured when a family member exercises any type of physical, psychological, or patrimonial violence against another member of the same family. The penalty ranges from 6 months to 4 years in prison.
Physical violence: Any intentional act in which a part of the body, an object, weapon, or substance is used to restrain, immobilize, or cause harm to another’s physical integrity.
Psychological violence: Acts intended to degrade or control another person’s behavior in a way that affects them psychologically or emotionally.
These two forms are the most relevant, as they are the ones most frequently present in these types of cases.
This crime is prosecuted ex officio (the authorities act without the need for the victim to press charges). Additionally, when committed against people with disabilities, pregnant women, or elderly individuals, the minimum and maximum penalties increase by up to one-half.
If you wish to file a complaint, you may go to the Public Prosecutor’s Office or the State Attorney General’s Office of Baja California. You may also request protective measures if you feel your safety is at risk.
