Legal Question in Criminal Law in Maryland

Malicious destriction carries a possible jail sentence, so you cannot simply pay a fine without going to court. Whether jail is imposed depends on the court and any prior record that you might have.

No one has to have a lawyer, but you may not speak to the court without the prosecutor present, and anything that you say may be used against you. The question is whether you feel that you know the law, the rules of procedure, the rules of evidence, the court, and the prosecutor well enough to negotiate a plea or try your own case with imprisonment as the possible outcome.

Whether the charges are dropped is up to the prosecutor, the court, or a jury.

No you cannot pay and not appear in court, this is a jailable charge. And it would be an extremely bad idea to try to handle this case yourself. The State is your enemy, they only want convictions, and they will not act with your best interests in mind. I would consult with a lawyer immediately.