@Eliusa,
If you have not had a citation previously the court may be lenient on you. There should be instructions on your citation how to appeal this. You will need to go to court and explain your side.
I wouldn't suggest lying as if you get caught it - the court will not be on your side. However, if you explain you have not ever or for x number of years had any sort of traffic violation.
I cannot believe that a lawyer would advise you lying.