Information timeline. Information only. Not meant to be legal advise.

1. Prior to arrest. If you are questioned and not placed under arrest, do not make statements to the police or sign any papers. Be polite, but do not say anything that may be used against you. Protect your right to remain silent.
Police officers are trained investigators, and are considered to be expert witnesses. Your silence cannot be used against you in a court of law.
2. Do not allow yourself to be talked into "working with the police" in return for some kind of "deal".
The District Attorney's office determines prosecution. NOT THE POLICE!
3. The police DOES NOT have to read you your Miranda rights. Miranda applies only to custodial interrogations. Questioning by the police once you are in actual custody.
The District Attorney can still prosecute even if you were not Mirandized. The statements you make cannot be used as evidence against you.
4. The police can arrest you, and book you without reading you your Miranda rights, as long as they DO NOT interrogate you.
5. Contact a lawyer immediately. If you are in custody, as soon as you request an attorney all questioning must stop.
6. Arrest. Never resist arrest. This can hurt you in more ways than one.
7. Booking: After an arrest the suspect is taken to central booking, photographed, finger prints are done, and a back ground check is done.
8. Criminal complaint is filed by the police officer with the District Attorney's office.
9.Arraignment and Bail: Usually first court appearance after arrest. It's at this time the person is formally charged and enters a plea. Bail application is made at this time.
10.Often plea bargains are offered. It will be up to the defendant as to whether the case goes to trial. Before making a decision to plea bargain, the defendant should make sure the defense attorney has talked with the Prosecutor to let that office know he/she is ready to go to trial. If you are going to enter a plea, you need to make sure you are making an informed decision.
11. Misdemeanors can be prosecuted by complaints, or based solely on some type of information. Felonies are brought to trial after an indictment. Defense attorneys should be involved with the defendant at this time to guide the defendant through the proceedings. Usually defense attorneys do not actively participate in the proceedings. This is the time the District Attorney presents the case evidence for determination as to whether the defendant committed the crime and in fact will be brought to trial.