Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

First off, if you ignore the whole thing there would be a warrant issued for your arrest. I doubt that is something that you want hanging over you and it would make greatly exacerbate your problems (not to mention make it difficult/risky for you to come to California).

I'm surprised to hear that you would even be charged with any crime for just calling a tenant for payment but since I don't have the facts it's hard to gauge the chance of success on your case.

Maximum penalty for any misdemeanor is up to a year of jail time. Depending on the facts of the case and the situation a guilty plea might be greeted with probation or paying a fine. Like I said, it really depends on the facts and circumstances of the case.

I would highly recommend you hire a lawyer and make some type of appearance on this. This is a very serious matter and charge and something you need to get figured out. The District Attorney will typically not talk to the defendant and a lawyer can argue more effectively on your behalf. Feel free to contact me to discuss more (714-883-5528).