Criminal offences are primarily categorized into which types?

Criminal offences are primarily categorized into two types: indictable and summary. Indictable offences are generally more serious in nature and carry heavier penalties, including imprisonment for long durations. They typically involve a more complex legal process, including the right to a trial by jury in many cases. Examples of indictable offences include robbery and murder.

On the other hand, summary offences are less serious and are usually tried in a simpler manner, typically in a lower court without a jury. They carry lighter penalties, such as shorter imprisonment terms or fines. Examples of summary offences include minor assaults or thefts of low value.

The distinction between these two categories is fundamental to understanding how the criminal justice system in Ontario operates, as it governs the legal procedures and potential consequences faced by individuals accused of different types of crimes. Other options, such as municipal or provincial categorization, do not align with the official legal classification of criminal offences and therefore are not applicable in this context.