Always appear. State your side of it whatever it is. 50/50 it will get reduced when you appear. 0 when you don't. You are running in a pack. He picks you out of the middle. You had to have done something to attract his attn. it's like taking the rear car and not the lead car. Speeding is speeding. I will get the lead car the next time. Not fair? Speeding is speeding can't stop them all. Plead your case. Be professional, be polite. Maybe the officer will be there maybe they won't. Judge will make the call based on your demeanor and your evidence presented. Good luck.