Law Society of Ontario (LSO) Paralegal Practice Exam

Which of the following correctly categorizes types of criminal offences?

1. Only summary and indictable offences

2. Summary, indictable, and regulatory offences

3. Summary conviction offences, indictable offences, and hybrid offences

4. Public and private offences

The correct answer is: Summary conviction offences, indictable offences, and hybrid offences

The classification of criminal offences is typically divided into three main categories: summary conviction offences, indictable offences, and hybrid offences. Summary conviction offences are less severe crimes that usually carry lighter penalties. They are generally tried in a lower court and have a shorter limitation period for prosecution. Indictable offences are more serious crimes that can result in heavier penalties, including longer jail sentences. These offences may be tried in either a provincial or superior court, depending on the nature and severity of the crime. Hybrid offences, also known as dual-procedure offences, can be prosecuted as either summary or indictable offences at the discretion of the Crown. This flexibility allows the prosecuting authority to decide the appropriate level of court and the nature of the offence based on the specifics of the case and its severity. The categorization encompassing all three types provides a comprehensive understanding of how various offences are treated under criminal law, reflecting the severity and context of the crime. This classification is essential for legal professionals when determining the appropriate charges and procedural steps in criminal cases.