summary offense

A summary offense is a minor legal violation that can be prosecuted without a formal court trial. Typically, these offenses include petty crimes like parking violations, minor traffic infractions, or public disorder offenses. They are usually handled through a simplified process, such as paying a fine or appearing before a magistrate. Because they’re less serious, they don’t require the formal procedures of a full trial, and penalties are generally limited to fines or warnings rather than imprisonment. Summary offenses are designed to quickly address minor breaches of the law without unnecessary complexity.