Resolving a suspended license in Chicago?

My license was suspended when I was younger and stupider due to unpaid parking tickets (yes, they can do that here, I didn't realize!!). I have paid off a majority of the tickets, but must go to City Hall to pay the remainder and have my license reinstated. I am terrified--I am afraid I will end up having to go to court or even jail. Since I live in the city, I don't drive, only take public. Still, I want my license back and want this resolved. My friends tell me I am being crazy--the city would not charge me if I was there making a good faith effort to pay it off completely. Any thoughts??