Charged:
If you are charged with a crime, an allegation is made in the eyes of the law – which means you are not yet proven to have committed the crime.
Convicted:
If you are convicted of a crime, it means you have been proven guilty of an offense. The guilty party goes on trial, and a judge will hear the evidence and defense. This is where attorneys come in.
Sentenced:
When you are sentenced for a crime, it means you are receiving punishment for the crime for which you have been convicted – often a fine or jail/prison time. The convict can appeal the sentence, usually with the assistance of an attorney.