What can I do if I am unable to attend paternity hearing?

My children reside with their father in another state. The state where they live in is seeking child support from me. There is a case pending for June 10, 2014. I am unable to be there for the hearing to determine paternity of my kids. Will I be held in contempt of court for not appearing? I have mailed letters to both the court and the state attorney stating that it is too difficult for me to appear. I work and live out of state. What other actions should I pursue? I have also contacted the state attorney by phone. They said they would mail me a letter after the hearing to have a DNA test done. I am worried I could go to jail for which I have never been. Plus I don't want to jeopardize my job. The letter explaining the details of the hearing says it would be in my best interest to appear; however, that is impossible for me.