Which of the following describes a summary offense?

A summary offense is characterized by its typically less serious nature and the fact that it is resolved relatively quickly in the legal system. These offenses are generally minor violations of the law, such as petty theft or traffic violations, which are handled without the need for a jury trial. As a result, the legal proceedings are streamlined, and the penalties imposed tend to be less severe compared to more serious offenses.

In contrast, offenses requiring a jury trial are generally more serious and fall under the category of indictable offenses. Summary offenses do not carry automatic prison sentences, which are generally reserved for higher-level crimes. Thus, the focus on the quick resolution and lower stakes is what distinguishes summary offenses in the legal framework.