What type of criminal offence can involve either summary conviction or indictment?

A hybrid offence is characterized by the option for the prosecution to proceed either by summary conviction, which is generally for less serious offences with lighter penalties, or by indictment, which is reserved for more severe cases that can result in harsher penalties. This flexibility allows the legal system to address the gravity of specific acts while considering various factors such as the nature of the crime and the circumstances surrounding it.

Hybrid offences create a tiered approach to justice, ensuring that the punishment fits both the offence and the offender. For instance, an individual charged with a hybrid offence may face a different legal process and potential consequences based on choices made by the prosecution, such as opting for summary procedures or pursuing a more serious indictment.

In contrast, serious offences tend to be classified strictly with harsher penalties and are usually processed by indictment alone. Provincial offences are typically dealt with in a separate framework under provincial law, often not involving the same criminal procedure as hybrid or serious offences. Felonies, while similar to serious offences, represent a term more commonly used in legal systems other than Canada's, specifically in the context of the United States. This recognition of the unique traits of hybrid offences is crucial in understanding their role within the Canadian legal framework.