And the verdict is...

I ended up getting one of my parking tickets cut in half (I did a "mitigation by mail" and sent in a statement explaining the circumstances) and one of them dismissed (I went downtown to the Municipal Court and defended myself in person). So instead of having to pay $76 in parking tickets, I only have to pay $20. Needless to say I am very happy with the results. My faith in the justice system has been restored, and at least I know that while the meter maids are completely ruthless, the magistrates have some sense of compassion.