Penal Code section 804

Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, for the purpose of this chapter, prosecution for an offense is commenced when any of the following occurs:

(a)

An indictment or information is filed.

(b)

A complaint is filed charging a misdemeanor or infraction.

(c)

The defendant is arraigned on a complaint that charges the defendant with a felony.

(d)

An arrest warrant or bench warrant is issued, provided the warrant names or describes the defendant with the same degree of particularity required for an indictment, information, or complaint.

Source: Section 804, https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=PEN§ionNum=804. (accessed Jun. 2, 2025).

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Last Updated

May 12, 2025

§ 804’s source at ca.gov

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Location: https://california.public.law/codes/penal_code_section_804

Original Source: Section 804, https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=PEN§ionNum=804. (last accessed May 12, 2025).