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

In Washington, the two main types of criminal offenses are summary offenses and indictable offenses. A summary offense is the least serious type of offense. This type of offense carries fewer penalties than an indictable offense. Examples of summary offenses include minor traffic violations, littering, disorderly conduct, and other offenses that do not involve jail time or large fines. An indictable offense is more serious than a summary offense and can carry steeper fines and even jail time. Examples of indictable offenses include assault, rape, vehicular homicide, robbery, and burglary. These offenses involve greater penalties and involve a more rigorous court process than summary offenses. In Washington, all criminal offenses are prosecuted either in district courts or superior courts. Summary offenses are prosecuted in district court, and indictable offenses are prosecuted in superior court. The difference between a summary offense and an indictable offense lies in the severity of the offense and the resulting penalties and court process. Summary offenses involve less severe penalties and are quicker to resolve, while indictable offenses involve steeper penalties and a more detailed court process.

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

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