What Are Summary Offences?
Summary offences are less serious criminal matters that are dealt with entirely in the Local Court, without the need for a jury or trial in a higher court. These offences are usually resolved more quickly and with lower penalties compared to indictable offences.
Examples of Summary Offences:
- Traffic Offences
- Drink driving or drug driving
- Speeding offences
- Driving without a valid license
- Minor Assaults
- Fights or altercations causing minor injuries
- Property Damage
- Vandalism or graffiti
- Intentional damage to someone else’s property
- Shoplifting and Minor Theft
- Theft of items below a certain value
- Disorderly Conduct
- Public intoxication
- Offensive language or behavior
- Drug Possession
- Possession of small quantities of prohibited substances
How Are Summary Offences Processed?
- Prosecuted by Police: Most summary offences are prosecuted by the NSW Police in the Local Court.
- No Jury Required: Cases are heard and decided by a magistrate.
- Simpler Procedures: Summary offences usually involve shorter hearings and faster resolutions.
Potential Penalties for Summary Offences
- Fines
- Good behaviour bonds
- Community service orders
- Short-term imprisonment (in more serious cases)
Why It’s Important to Seek Legal Advice
Even though summary offences are considered less serious, they can still carry significant penalties and have long-term consequences, such as:
- A criminal record
- Impact on employment or travel opportunities
- Fines and financial strain
Seeking advice from a qualified lawyer, like Coastal Lawyers, ensures your case is handled professionally and with your best interests in mind.
Need Help With a Summary Offence?
At Coastal Lawyers, we have extensive experience representing clients in Local Courts across NSW. If you’re facing a summary offence, book a strategy session with us today for expert guidance and support.
Written by Coastal Lawyers- Central Coast Criminal Lawyers
Coastal Lawyers are Central Coast Criminal Lawyers located on the Central Coast at Erina.
Coastal Lawyers represent criminal law clients in all areas of criminal law, traffic law and apprehended and domestic violence (ADVO) and private personal violence orders (APVOs).
Founded by a former prosecutor and former police officer, with over 20 years combined experience we are experienced and confident advocates regularly appearing before the Local Court, District Court and Supreme Courts of New South Wales.
Coastal Lawyers appears at the Wyong Local Court, Gosford Local Court and the Gosford District Court as well as Supreme Court bail applications as required.
If you have been charged by police with a criminal offence then early legal advice is often crucial to the success of your case. Book in a 1 hour Strategy Session today.