Rule 10(b):
The defendant may deny responsibility by appearing in person or by notifying the court in writing. The defendant may, at the same time, tender the civil sanction listed in the court's deposit schedule for civil traffic violations to insure that no driver's license suspension will result from failure to appear. Upon receipt of said notice, the court shall set the matter for hearing and notify the defendant of the date, time, and place for the hearing.
Here in Navajo County apparently the court clerks double as CTHO's, so yes, they can and do set matters for hearing upon request.
As it happens, I received two citations in one week, in two different local cities (gotta love those artificially low speed limits). One court clerk immediately scheduled my hearing upon receipt of my denial and request for hearing...the other did not.
Does that clarify things a bit better? I appreciate your response, thank you.

