My question involves criminal law for the state of: Georgia
I was recently given a ticket for public intoxication in Dekalb County in Atlanta Georgia. The ticket has indicated that I should appear in court on the 18th June (about 3 months away). I was not arrested or put in handcuffs or anything like that, just made sign the ticket and then leave. When given the ticket, I gave a false name, address, and date of birth in panic, as I am on exchange here in America and was terrified of being deported/not being able to get a visa to work here in the future.
On the ticket, it is not quite clear if it is essential I go to court-on the back it says if you wish to plead not guilty you must appear in court. I have no problem pleading guilty, and I have absolutely no problem paying any fine, or anything like that, but what I am really worried about is the fact I gave a false name. Is there anyway that I can pay the fine/penalty without going to court? Or if I do go to court, do I need to bring identification with me or can I give the name I gave (I realise this is really dodgy, but I realise how serious it is to give false information to the police...obviously the first option would appeal to me way more).
Another point is that I am leaving the country almost a full month before the court date-could I use this in my favour to try and pay the fine before the court date??
I realise that I was an idiot for giving a false name and getting into the situation in the first place, but would appreciate any help.
Please reply with any information/help as soon as possible.
Thanks

