Who typically handles summary prosecutions and many committal hearings for indictable offenses?

In the context of the criminal justice system, summary prosecutions and committal hearings for indictable offenses are usually managed by police prosecutors. These individuals are typically officers of the law who have received training in legal matters and are authorized to present cases in lower courts, such as the Local Court, where summary offenses are heard.

Police prosecutors handle the initial stages of a criminal case, including gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and determining the appropriate charges. They play a critical role in ensuring that cases are prepared for trial and can facilitate the prosecution process efficiently at the summary level.

In contrast, other types of legal representatives, such as public defenders and private attorneys, primarily serve the interests of defendants rather than prosecuting cases. Crown prosecutors, while responsible for prosecuting serious offenses in higher courts, do not typically handle summary matters or the initial stages of committal hearings, which are generally the domain of police prosecutors. Thus, the role of police prosecutors is essential in managing these specific legal proceedings effectively.