What is a key characteristic of summary offenses?

A key characteristic of summary offenses is that they are categorized as minor crimes. Summary offenses typically include less serious violations, such as petty theft or minor traffic offenses, which usually do not carry severe penalties. These offenses are generally handled in lower courts without the need for a jury, streamlining the process for these minor matters.

The nature of summary offenses means that they often involve shorter trial processes and simpler proceedings compared to more serious crimes, which may require a jury and longer trials. Additionally, while some summary offenses can result in penalties, such as fines or community service, they do not commonly lead to significant prison sentences as more serious offenses might. Hence, the classification of summary offenses as minor crimes is a defining trait that distinguishes them from other, more serious charges.