I'm in Seattle, WA.
I went through a red light on my bicycle after waiting for traffic to clear. A cop popped out from I don't know where and stopped me. The story should end here but I was having a bad day already and feeling combative. So I wind up with a traffic ticket for the light AND a CRIMINAL traffic ticket for "Refusing to cooperate" with the officer which requires a mandatory hearing. (SMC 11.59.040, Seattle municipal court)
I've never been to court so I'm seeking some advice for how I should proceed. Is this like an arrest without being booked and as such should I get a lawyer? Or would getting a lawyer for such a minor offence look bad to the judge? I think this is classified a misdemeanor but I'm not sure. Any advice appreciated.
(not sure if this is posted in the right place so any mod feel free to move it)

