Got caught stealing merchandise for $14.50 not arrested. Summons was issued. Have to appear in court. What will happen?

You should make no statement and do not admit any guilt even if they caught you with the item in your hand.

You plead not guity and get a court appointed attorney if you don't already have one.

Then a lot depends on past crimes and criminal record.
But if your record is clean you should be able to work out a deal for first offender where it disappears after a probation period