Legal Definitions - summary trial

A summary trial is a non-jury proceeding that settles a controversy or disposes of a case in a relatively prompt and simple manner. It is a type of summary proceeding, which is a legal process that is faster and less formal than a regular trial.

For example, in a summary trial, a judge may hear arguments from both sides and make a decision without a full trial. This type of proceeding is often used in small claims court or in cases where the facts are not in dispute.

Another example of a summary proceeding is a supplementary proceeding, which is held in connection with the enforcement of a judgment. In this type of proceeding, the court identifies and locates the debtor's assets that can be used to satisfy the judgment.

Overall, a summary trial is a useful tool for resolving legal disputes quickly and efficiently, without the need for a full trial.