What is a key characteristic of a "summary conviction appeal"?

A summary conviction appeal is characterized by its focus on reviewing less serious offenses, which aligns with the nature of summary convictions themselves. Summary convictions generally involve minor offenses that do not carry the same severity as indictable offenses. These types of cases are designed to be processed more quickly and with less formality, allowing for a more streamlined legal process.

In contrast, the other characteristics listed do not apply to summary conviction appeals. They do not deal with serious criminal charges, which are usually handled through more formal procedures like indictable offenses. Additionally, in most jurisdictions, either the defendant or the prosecution can initiate a summary conviction appeal, not exclusively the prosecutor. Lastly, summary conviction appeals do not typically involve jury decisions; rather, they often rely on judicial review without a jury trial, focusing instead on the record of the lower court proceedings and applicable law. This emphasis on reviewing decisions stemming from lesser offenses is what fundamentally distinguishes summary conviction appeals within the criminal justice system.