Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of an indictable offence?

An indictable offence is typically associated with serious crimes that carry significant consequences. The characteristic that it is always a federal offence is not accurate, making it the correct answer in this context. Indictable offences can fall under provincial jurisdiction as well, depending on the nature of the crime and relevant legislation.

The other characteristics highlight the gravity and procedural elements of indictable offences. They include the fact that they are serious crimes, which often leads to high penalties, including imprisonment. Additionally, the capability of these offences to be tried by a jury, reflecting their severity, is a fundamental aspect of the judicial process for more serious crimes. Thus, while they can involve federal laws, they can also encompass offences that are governed by provincial statutes, contradicting the assertion in the option regarding their jurisdiction.