When is a preliminary inquiry typically held?

A preliminary inquiry is a legal process that occurs in the context of criminal proceedings to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial. It is typically used for serious charges, particularly indictable offenses, which are more severe than summary convictions.

The correct answer highlights that a preliminary inquiry is generally held when the accused is charged with an indictable offense that carries a significant penalty, such as one punishable by 14 years or more. This is because the preliminary inquiry serves as a safeguard to assess the strength of the prosecution's case and to protect the accused's rights against wrongful charges. These inquiries are crucial in ensuring that cases involving serious allegations are thoroughly vetted before they go to trial, thus preserving judicial resources and reducing the burden on the legal system.

In contrast, less serious charges, or minor offenses, typically do not warrant a preliminary inquiry since the consequences are not as severe and the legal process for such offenses is often more streamlined. Therefore, options that suggest preliminary inquiries for all minor crimes or solely for felony charges do not align with the specific purpose and application of preliminary inquiries in the judicial system.