Understanding Summary Offenses in Pennsylvania: What You Need to Know

Summary offenses in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania are widely misunderstood. Because they are considered the least severe criminal charges, many people assume they are too minor to worry about. That assumption can lead to serious and unexpected consequences.

If you have been charged with a summary offense in Pennsylvania, it is essential to understand the penalties, long-term effects, and why speaking with a criminal defense lawyer is so important.

Types of Summary Offenses in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania divides summary offenses into two categories:

1. Traffic Summary Offenses

Traffic summary offenses fall under the Motor Vehicle Code and include violations such as:

• Speeding
• Careless driving
• Illegal parking

Typically, being charged with a traffic summary offense does not mean you have been charged with a crime. These are violations, not criminal offenses, and usually involve fines and points.

2. Non-Traffic Summary Offenses (Criminal Offenses)

Non-traffic summary offenses fall under the Pennsylvania Crimes Code and are criminal charges. These include:

• Harassment
• Underage drinking
• Disorderly conduct
• False identification
• Public drunkenness

Non-traffic citations often look identical to traffic tickets. Many people receive a citation in the mail, assume it is a simple traffic violation, and plead guilty without realizing they are actually pleading guilty to a criminal offense. While paying the fine may be appropriate in some cases, doing so can also result in an avoidable criminal record.

Penalties for Non-Traffic Summary Offenses in Pennsylvania

Although summary offenses are the lowest-level crimes in Pennsylvania, a conviction still carries serious penalties, including:

• Up to 90 days in jail
• Fines of $300 or more
• A permanent criminal record

A criminal record—even for a summary offense—can make it harder to:

• Secure employment
• Obtain professional licenses
• Get accepted into academic programs
• Qualify for housing or loans

These consequences can follow you long after the fine is paid. That's why it's critical not to underestimate a summary offense or the impact of a conviction.

Charged With a Summary Offense? Speak With a Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you've received a summary citation, contact a Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. You may have defenses available, including challenging the citation, negotiating for dismissal, or seeking alternative resolutions that prevent a conviction from appearing on your record.

Contact Sklarosky Law

If you or a loved one are facing summary criminal charges, call Sklarosky Law today at (570) 283-1200 or use our online contact form to tell us about your case.

Criminal charges—even summary offenses—can have life-altering consequences.
Don't wait. Let us protect your rights.