You just call the parking authority, tell them you're contesting, then they give you a date. It's pretty simple. You just show up at one of the parking courts, they give you the one that's closest to you for the most part. Show up early, absolutely do not be late, read a book or something, try not to be on your phone, they don't like that, until it's your turn and state your case. Try to bring evidence, like that you were on vacation and hadn't seen the signs (just say that, not that you haven't left the house). Bring pay stubs or like... A PTO slip or something. They most likely won't bother to look at them, but you need to have them on hand if they ask. Try not to cry or anything, I'm an easy crier, but I did good and didn't cry either time, and keep your answers short and polite. Rehearse with your girlfriend if you're nervous. Treat it a bit like a job interview.

You can do this. It's not that bad. I mean, it's a pain in the ass, but it'll probably be worth it.