open container

i received an summons for an open container of alcohol in new york. i'm not sure if this shows up on your record or not, but i'd like to fight it. at the bottom of the summons is a section for me to sign that says i acknowledge the receipt..... the officer never had me sign this section. does this mean the summons is improperly written and invalid? if so, do i have to show up in court or can i take care of this by mail. thanks for the help.

"does this mean the summons is improperly written and invalid?"
*** No. The signature at the bottom of the citation is only your promise to appear and has nothing to do with the validity of the ticket.

"if so, do i have to show up in court or can i take care of this by mail."
*** Ask the court.