What is the difference between a summary offense and an indictable offense?

In Maryland, the difference between a summary offense and an indictable offense is one of seriousness. Summary offenses are minor criminal offenses and generally involve only a small penalty, such as a fine or short term of imprisonment. Indictable offenses are more serious and involve potential lengthy prison terms. Summary offenses are usually tried in a lower court, such as a district court or a county court, while indictable offenses are tried in a higher court. Summary offenses are usually charged by the police or other law enforcement, while indictable offenses are formally charged by a grand jury. The grand jury reviews evidence provided by the prosecutor and then, if appropriate, issues an indictment containing a formal charge. When it comes to criminal procedure in Maryland, there can be quite a few differences between a summary offense and an indictable offense. Summary offenses tend to be prosecuted more quickly, since they don’t require the additional steps of indictment by a grand jury and trial by jury. Summary offenses may also require less evidence to convict the defendant than indictable offenses. In Maryland, defendants accused of summary offenses are not guaranteed the same right to a jury trial that those accused of indictable offenses are. Summary offenses may also involve less punishment, such as a smaller fine or shorter period of incarceration. On the other hand, indictable offenses may lead to much more serious penalties, such as long terms of imprisonment, and victims have greater rights to restitution.

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What is the difference between a summary offense and an indictable offense?

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