What is primarily used by law enforcement for issuing financial penalties for minor offences?

The primary tool used by law enforcement for issuing financial penalties for minor offences is the Fixed Penalty Notice. These notices are intended for less serious infractions, allowing officers to impose a fine without the need for formal court proceedings. This process streamlines enforcement and provides a quick resolution for minor offences, reducing the burden on the justice system.

Fixed Penalty Notices can cover a range of minor legal violations, such as certain traffic offences or public order offences. They serve not only as a deterrent but also facilitate compliance with the law by providing an immediate consequence for infractions. The simplicity and efficiency of this mechanism make it a preferred option for law enforcement agencies when dealing with low-level offending.

Other options exist as well, such as Criminal Infringement Notices, which are used for specific offences, particularly in relation to minor criminal matters, and Traffic Infringement Notices, which deal with traffic-related violations specifically. However, the broad applicability and the focus on financial penalties for minor offences render Fixed Penalty Notices the primary choice for law enforcement in these situations.