What will happen if I did not go to court for a drunk in public charge?

If you received a citation for being drunk in public and failed to appear in court on the date and time indicated on the citation then you will most likely have a warrant for your arrest. In California, Penal Code Section 647(f) makes it a misdemeanor to be under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs in a public place if you are unable to exercise care for yourself or others. Failure to appear in court on a misdemeanor criminal charge will result in a warrant for your arrest. I suggest you immediately contact an experienced criminal defense attorney to discuss going into court and recalling the warrant on your behalf. I would caution you against trying to recall the warrant on your own without first consulting with a criminal defense lawyer.

Assuming it was a misdemeanor (ie. PC 647(f) ), you probably have a warrant out for your arrest. Considering hiring an attorney, who can appear without you to recall the warrant and deal with the case, which seems relatively minor, meaning that a reduction to an infraction or a dismissal should be the ultimate goal.

A bench warrant for non appearance will be issued. They will not seek you out however if you come in contact with the police you will be arrested and held without bail until your hearing. You should go to court before you are taken to court.

An arrest warrant was issued. For you to handle this, you must turn yourself into the court, with or without an attorney, and try to negotiate a plea bargain on the warrant and outstanding charges. Doing so voluntarily will result in a better outcome than you being brought in cuffs to court after arrest on the warrant. That will happen if you come in contact with law enforcement or customs anywhere in the US. While this isn't a 'capital case', you certainly face potential jail and fines, so handle it right. Unless you're competent to effectively represent yourself in court against a professional prosecutor trying to put you in jail, most people hire an attorney who can. If you get serious about doing so, feel free to contact me.