How are criminal offences classified?

Criminal offences are classified based on the seriousness of the crime and the type of court that will hear the case. The classification into Summary, Minor Indictable, and Major Indictable reflects this hierarchy and the corresponding legal procedures involved.

Summary offences are typically less serious violations, such as minor traffic offenses or public disturbances. These cases are usually handled in a lower court without a jury and lead to a simpler legal process.

Minor Indictable offences are more severe than summary offences but are still considered less serious than major indictable offences. They may involve some degree of complexity and can be tried in either a lower court or a higher court, depending on the circumstances.

Major Indictable offences are the most serious types of crimes, such as murder or serious assault. These cases typically require a trial by jury in a higher court and involve more substantial legal ramifications, such as longer prison sentences and significant legal procedures.

This classification system facilitates a clear understanding of how criminal law operates and guides legal practitioners through the court process, further reflecting the severity of the offences and the state’s interests in prosecuting them.