A fix-it-ticket doesn't require a court appearance. The defect must be corrected, the citation signed off by a peace officer, and you can send it back with the $35 and be done with it.

I understand that was what should have been done but hope is not lost. I think what has happened is that the fix-it-ticket went to warrant for your failure to appear (FTA). They added the section for FTA as a new charge which is where that big fine comes from. I would suggest going to the courthouse you were supposed to appear at, go to the traffic window/clerk and ask to be placed on calendar to deal with your FTA. I don't know if they'll require you to post the $898 bail. If you have your original citation and the defect corrected, get it signed off before you go and be prepared to present that and any documentary evidence to explain your FTA. You are not the first person to FTA for traffic court and you won't be the last so the hearing officer will not bat an eye a FTA.

When you get before the traffic hearing officer, you can ask that the FTA be dismissed and you have your signed off citation with you and you would happily pay the $35 now. I'm sure you'll have to explain your reasons. If you're lucky you will get that disposition. Another alternative is that you will have to plead guilty to the FTA but the fine can be reduced significantly. The fine itself is actually not that big but they tack on a "penalty assessment" which is some crazy number per $1 of fine.

I would not bother with a lawyer for this. I think it's something you can handle yourself if you have the time to deal with the clerk. Depending on how busy the court is you might even get yourself on calendar the same day. I would recommend getting there early in case they can squeeze you in.

Good luck!

*This is not legal advice. I just know what has worked for some people.

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