Stopped by the police in the evening

I got the ticket from the police on the spot. I mailed my plea not guilty to the court the next week (sorry for my typo for "day" rather than "week"). The court confirmed it was received. No court date was scheduled in 2005 although I called the court every other month. Guess the judge was too busy to take care of my case in 2005. There is only one judge in that small court.

I forgot to call in 2006 as I was busy on project and forgot this case. Then all of sudden I was told a court date was scheduled in March and I didn't appear. Shocked but feeling unfair.

Any suggestion will be highly appreciated.