Final answer:
Saying an indictable offence can be heard summarily means that the trial process is shorter and less formal, allowing serious offences to be tried in a lower court without the need for a jury.
Step-by-step explanation:
When an indictable offence can be heard summarily, it signifies a departure from the traditional procedures associated with more serious criminal charges. This process allows for a streamlined and expedited trial compared to the usual intricate proceedings.
One significant aspect is the abbreviated nature of the trial, which is shorter and less formal. This departure from the conventional legal processes aims to enhance efficiency while maintaining fairness.
Moreover, the absence of a jury in the proceedings is another characteristic feature. Unlike trials for more serious offences, where a jury is typically present to assess evidence and deliver a verdict, summary proceedings involve a judge making determinations on guilt or innocence.
This not only contributes to the expeditious nature of the trial but also simplifies the decision-making process.
However, it's essential to note that the option to hear an indictable offence summarily doesn't imply the automatic dismissal of the case without a trial.
The legal process still unfolds, albeit in a more efficient manner. This modification in the legal proceedings aims to strike a balance between the need for a fair trial and the practical considerations of time and resources within the legal system.