Classification of Offences

• Summary offences:

  • Minor, least serious offence
  • Trial always takes place in the Magistrates Court
  • Examples: assault, battery, criminal damage under £5000, most driving offences e.g. driving without insurance or speeding
• Triable-either-way offences:

  • Mid-ranging offences
  • Can be serous but can be minor
  • Trial takes place in the Magistrates or Crown Court
  • Examples: Theft, s.47 OAPA 1861 (ABH)
• Indictable offences:

  • Really serious offence
  • Trial takes place in the Crown Court
  • Examples: murder, robbery