My question involves criminal law for the state of: North Carolina

I went to my first appearance and applied for a court appointed attorney. I was denied with the reasoning that I do not face an active or suspended sentence. I understand that this means there's no possibility of jail time. I'm just unsure how a criminal offense would not have either? Given this information, I do not really want to spend $500 to hire a private attorney. Can someone please tell me how to obtain a copy of the evidence that is to be used against me? Would I contact the district attorney and request the documents? Also, what type of punishment would I be facing if found guilty? Fines and/or probation?