The first official court action in the criminal justice system of California is an Arraignment Hearing. It comes after an arrest. Simply put, at this point, the court will inform you of your constitutional rights, inform you of the precise accusations that have been brought against you, give you the chance to make your initial plea, and establish, amend, reinstate, or release you on bond.

May I add as well, not just in the criminal justice system of California, it applies in criminal trials the world over.

Its at this point that the suspect becomes an accused.

methewalvin:
The first official court action in the criminal justice system of California is an Arraignment Hearing. It comes after an arrest. Simply put, at this point, the court will inform you of your constitutional rights, inform you of the precise accusations that have been brought against you, give you the chance to make your initial plea, and establish, amend, reinstate, or release you on bond.