i took $100 from work and got arrested

If you took merchandise held for sale, you will probably be charged with retail theft. If you took someone's personal $100 gift card while you were at work, you will probably be charged with theft. Both offenses are Class A Misdemeanors, punishable with a maximum fine of $2,500 and 364 days in the County Jail.  Retail Theft also has a special section that allows retailers to sue you in civil court to collect extra money.   Your options are to represent yourself or hire a private attorney. In circumstances in which you cannot afford a private attorney, you can request the services of a Public Defender. You will likely receive an offer from the State's Attorney if you wish to plead guilty. If you do not like the State's Attorney's Offer, you may also plead guilty and ask the Judge to sentence you.  If you do not wish to plead guilty, you may ask for a trial. A trial can be a bench trial in front of a judge only, or a jury trial in front of 12 members of your local County or community.  If you are found not guilty, you are free to go. If you are found guilty, you will be sentenced up to the maximum sentence permissible. If you do not know what to do, hiring a private attorney or requesting a public defender are good first steps.