Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Theft of any amount under $400 can be petty theft - a misdemeanor that carries up to 6 months in county jail and/or a thousand dollar fine. Theft of under $50 can also be an infraction, but it's up to the prosecution how they charge it.

If you're facing a misdemeanor, you will have to go to court (or an attorney on your behalf can appear). For such a low dollar amount, I can only assume your attorney can work out something to try and avoid a misdemeanor theft conviction on your record.

Either hire an attorney to appear for you before your court date or you will have to show up and if you cannot afford an attorney, request the services of the public defender.