Too many people mistake police officers for judges. LEOs do not have the final say, and the majority of the tickets they write are reduced or dismissed with the slightest inkling of contest...the MAJORITY. Think about it.
Cops can write a ticket for whatever they want, and often say things that aren't true, like you HAVE to appear in court on this date. (A lawyer "represents" you, which means he is there in your behalf. The judge can request your presence, but a later date will have to be set.) The judge makes the final decision as to whether or not you are guilty and punishable by law, not the cop.