a simplified procedure for the consideration of criminal cases. In the capitalist countries, a summary proceeding characteristically does not observe the guarantees of personal rights, and the case is resolved at the discretion of judicial officials. As a rule, cases are dealt with by a single judge of the lower courts, without a jury and without preliminary investigation of the case. The judgment of guilt is usually based on the materials submitted by the police.

As a form of procedure, a summary proceeding is not unknown to the legislation on criminal procedure in certain socialist countries. In these countries, however, procedural changes in this respect are permitted only in cases involving less serious crimes, for which the law does not provide for grave punishment. In a summary proceeding, particular significance is attached to full assurance of procedural guarantees and to protection of the legal interests of the participants in the proceeding.