Don't know where you were reading, but it doesn't sound like California. You can file a Trial By Written Declaration and if that fails (as it likely will0 then you can as for a Trial De Novo and be heard in court. Or you can go direct to court. Not sure what the point is other than waisting a lot of time (and you won't be putting off paying the fine as they'll make you post the "bail" equal to the fine anyhow).
You must submit it by the due date on your citation.2. Is there a time limit within which you have to appeal? Like within 20 days of recieving the ticket or anything like that?
Do you have a defense? Is there some reason we should believe you are not guilty? This isn't even a charge where you can contest the validity of the posted speed.3. Should I even appeal it?
You were told wrong.4. I was clocked with a LIDAR@ 1,3xx ft. I've read that they aren't as accurate past 1,000 ft. Can I use that as a defense?
Again, I have no idea what you are looking at fort this information. The procedure is as I expressed it. If you go straight to the arraignment and ask for the trial, your case will be continued until the officer present. The chances that an officer will not respond to a TBD or show for a trial are extremely remote.5. I know that after first appeal, if fails, I can do a 2nd one with the officer present for I think 75$, if that doesn't work, do I still have the option of going to court or is that it?

