Types of Summary Offenses in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, a summary offense is the least serious classification of criminal or traffic violation — but that does not mean it should be taken lightly. A summary conviction can still lead to fines, jail time, and a permanent record that can affect employment, schooling, and licensing.

At Sklarosky Law, we help clients throughout Wilkes-Barre, Kingston, Pittston, Hazleton, Nanticoke, and all of Northeastern Pennsylvania fight both traffic and non-traffic summary offenses to protect their rights, record, and reputation.

Traffic Summary Offenses in Pennsylvania

Traffic summary offenses fall under Pennsylvania's Motor Vehicle Code and are among the most common citations issued to drivers.

Examples of traffic summary offenses include:

• Speeding
• Running a stop sign or red light
• Failure to signal
• Illegal parking
• Driving without valid registration or insurance

In most cases, being charged with a traffic summary offense does not mean you've been charged with a criminal offense. However, these citations can still result in:

• Fines and court costs
• Points added to your driving record
• Driver's license suspension for certain violations

Even minor traffic offenses can accumulate and cause long-term consequences, such as increased insurance premiums or suspension under Pennsylvania's point system.

Non-Traffic Summary Offenses in Pennsylvania

A non-traffic summary offense is criminal in nature, even though it is the lowest level of criminal charge in Pennsylvania. These offenses are typically charged by citation rather than arrest but can still carry lasting penalties.

Common non-traffic summary offenses include:

• Harassment
• Disorderly conduct
• Underage drinking
• Public drunkenness
• False identification to law enforcement

While these charges may seem minor, a conviction can leave a permanent mark on your criminal record, visible to employers, schools, and licensing boards.

Penalties for Non-Traffic Summary Offenses

Although summary offenses are the least severe category under Pennsylvania law, the penalties can still be serious.

If convicted, you may face:

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

A criminal history—even for a summary offense—can make it more difficult to:

• Secure employment
• Be accepted into school or professional programs
• Obtain professional or occupational licenses

Fortunately, many summary offenses can be challenged, reduced, or expunged with the help of an experienced Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney.

Why You Shouldn't Plead Guilty Without Talking to a Lawyer

Many people simply plead guilty to summary citations they receive in the mail—especially for non-traffic summary offenses like underage drinking or disorderly conduct—without realizing they are pleading guilty to a crime.

Before entering a plea or paying a fine, talk to a lawyer who understands Pennsylvania's criminal procedure and can help protect your record. At Sklarosky Law, we regularly appear before Magisterial District Judges across Northeastern Pennsylvania to fight for dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and expungements.

Facing a Summary Offense in Luzerne County? Contact Sklarosky Law.

If you or a loved one are facing summary offense charges in Wilkes-Barre, Kingston, Pittston, Hazleton, Plains Township, Nanticoke, or anywhere in Northeastern Pennsylvania, don't wait. Even minor citations can lead to serious and lasting consequences.

Call Sklarosky Law today at (570) 283-1200 or use our online contact form to schedule a consultation.
We'll review your case, explain your options, and work to protect your rights and your future.