That's been my experience, LJ. Get it fixed or fix it, take the receipt for the repair or parts to the court within 10 days and the clerk stamps it off. Never had to have a formal court date unless I wanted to fight the ticket, which would be stupid.
The reason they give you a ticket is to make it to your advantage to get it fixed instead of just putting it off until you cause an accident. There are actually people out there that couldn't care less about the car behind them. They don't care who they endanger, including themselves and their passengers. which are most often family.
With the back of the car pointed toward a darkened store window or even a garage door, it's pretty easy to tell if one side is out. Or you can put a stick or weight on the pedal. Or you can ask the next person you drop off to check. If you have no friends, ask any police officer.
What difference does it make if your car is in the shop?