Which of the following best describes the nature of a summary offence?

A summary offence is typically characterized by minor violations of the law that are less serious compared to felonies or indictable offences. These offences usually involve violations such as petty theft, traffic violations, or disorderly conduct. Given their lesser severity, summary offences often result in fines rather than lengthy court processes or incarceration.

The nature of summary offences means that they do not require a jury trial and can often be resolved in a much quicker manner, typically involving a judge in a lower court. This streamlined approach reflects their status as minor violations and is why fines are a common outcome.

In contrast, the other options describe aspects related to more serious charges or different types of judicial proceedings that do not align with the characteristic nature of summary offences.