I've been through this before. If you're the type of person that can't keep a straight face in court, has trouble speaking in a clear, concise manner using proper english, or has a rap sheet/driving record that's a mile long (ie has no credibility), then I would suggest seeking legal counsel. Otherwise this is an offence that can be fought, and with a little luck, even won. First off, was your friend charged in the incident?
Nope, didn't even know I was following my friend.
Was his car inspected for safety violations? Find out what exactly the officer knows about the entire incident. You can get a copy of his notes. You are not trying to discredit the officer here as far as the tailgaiting is concerned. I doubt the judge would buy that. You may be able to convice the judge that you weren't doing the speed the officer claims. What speed is that by the way?
Just says traveling at fast speeds
He wasn't using a radar gun right? Was he following? Stopped?
Stopped in a parking lot
How could he accurately judge your speed? Could he be wrong? You have to raise this doubt to the court. In addition, the tailgaiting claim. I would concede to this, however you must provide a perfectly valid reason for why you were following so closely. Only then might the points be dropped. Maybe your friend's brake lights weren't working at the time? (Again, get the officer's notes). Maybe there was an animal or debris on the road which caused him to brake so suddenly, and since his brake lights were out you got closer then you ever intended to? There's definitely room to work here. I think this case has a chance.