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Simple English definitions for legal terms
petty offense
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A quick definition of petty offense:
A petty offense is a small crime that is not very serious. It is like when you do something wrong, but it is not a big deal. In the past, there were special courts called petty sessions where people would go to trial for these small crimes without a jury.
A more thorough explanation:
A petty offense is a minor crime or violation of the law. It is a less serious offense than a felony or misdemeanor. Petty offenses are usually punished with a fine or a short jail sentence.
- Speeding
- Jaywalking
- Loitering
- Disorderly conduct
These examples illustrate petty offenses because they are minor violations of the law that are usually punished with a fine or a short jail sentence. They are not serious crimes like murder or robbery.
Petty sessions were a type of court in English law that were held to try minor misdemeanors summarily (i.e., without a jury). They were presided over by a justice of the peace and were used to deal with minor offenses quickly and efficiently.