Unless you are being accused of doing something you did not do it is unlikely you would want to go to trial. For a petty offense like this, depending on where you live, it is very possible that after a quick meeting with the public defender a plea agreement would be worked out promptly with no need to return at a later date. Even if you do have to return, contact the court and obtain instructions for how to request a continuance if you are unable to attend for a medical reason. They will set a new date for you.