If I have notice to reappear in court for a progress report can I just go to the clerk's office?

I recently got 5 AA meetings for a case dismissal. They gave me a notice to reappear in court but I heard that if you finish before the given date you can just go to the clerk's office and show them your progress report? I really need to know because I don't feel like waiting 8 hours again just to let the judge see my improvement. I was wondering if this is true? thanks before hand!