California Code, Penal Code - PEN § 949

The first pleading on the part of the people in the superior court in a felony case is the indictment, information, or the complaint in any case certified to the superior court under Section 859a.  The first pleading on the part of the people in a misdemeanor or infraction case is the complaint except as otherwise provided by law.  The first pleading on the part of the people in a proceeding pursuant to Section 3060 of the Government Code is an accusation.