According to Title 2 of the California Penal Code, the major steps of the criminal process are as follows:
The prefile investigation
Obtaining an arrest warrant based on an information or else indicting the suspect by a grand jury
The arraignment
A plea bargain (if the case resolves before trial)
The preliminary hearing (only in felony cases) to determine if there is probable cause
The criminal trial
The sentencing hearing (if the defendant is convicted)