Which term describes an offence that the Crown may choose to prosecute as either summary or indictable?

A hybrid offence refers to a category of crime that gives the Crown the discretion to prosecute the case either as a summary offence or as an indictable offence. This dual-track system allows for flexibility in how the law is applied based on various factors, such as the severity of the crime, the circumstances of the case, or the history of the offender.

The choice of prosecution can impact the potential penalties and procedures involved. For example, if prosecuted summarily, the penalties might be lighter and proceedings generally faster; if prosecuted as indictable, the offender might face more severe consequences and a longer, more complex legal process.

This classification is significant in Canadian criminal law as it acknowledges the varying seriousness of offences and allows the prosecution to select the most appropriate approach based on the case specifics. In contrast, an indictable offence is one that can only be prosecuted as indictable, and a summary offence can only be prosecuted as such, highlighting the unique position of hybrid offences in the legal framework. Exempt offences do not exist within the standard classification of criminal offences.