Life-Altering Stakes
The potential consequences call for meticulous attention to every detail.
Homicide Defence
Homicide & Manslaughter Lawyer
in Toronto
A homicide charge is among the most serious allegations a person can face. These cases demand careful preparation from the very first day.
JT Defence Law represents individuals charged with first-degree murder, second-degree murder, manslaughter and related offences, from bail through trial.
Schedule a Confidential ConsultationWhy Homicide Cases Demand Experienced Defence
Murder carries a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment in Canada. Manslaughter and related offences can also carry very significant penalties.
Homicide prosecutions often involve extensive disclosure, forensic and expert evidence, witness statements, digital records and lengthy proceedings in the Superior Court of Justice. Bail for murder must be heard by a Superior Court judge, and the accused generally bears the burden of showing why release is justified.
Complex Evidence
Forensic, medical, video and digital evidence must be carefully tested.
Bail in Superior Court
Murder bail hearings proceed under special rules in a higher court.
Jury Trials
Many homicide cases are tried before a judge and jury.
What We Do
Meticulous preparation for the most serious allegations.
We work through the disclosure methodically, identify the issues that matter, and consult with experts where needed to test forensic and medical evidence.
Homicide cases can raise questions of identity, intent, causation, self-defence and the reliability of witness evidence. Our role is to scrutinize the Crown’s case at every stage and advocate firmly on your behalf.
Bail Advocacy
Preparing release plans for Superior Court bail hearings.
Expert Evidence
Reviewing pathology, forensic and other expert opinions.
Pre-Trial Motions
Challenging the admissibility of statements and other evidence.
Trial Advocacy
Preparation for preliminary inquiries and jury trials.
Allegations We Defend
Homicide-related allegations
We represent clients facing the most serious charges before the courts in Ontario.
- First-degree murder
- Second-degree murder
- Manslaughter
- Criminal negligence causing death
- Attempted murder
- Accessory after the fact
Our Approach
- 01
Immediate Response
We advise on rights during investigation and begin preparing for bail.
- 02
Comprehensive Review
We analyze all disclosure, retain experts where appropriate and identify the key issues.
- 03
Litigate the Case
We bring pre-trial applications and present your defence at preliminary inquiry and trial.
Our Goal: If you or a family member is facing a homicide-related allegation, contact counsel as early as possible.
FAQ’s
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to common questions about homicide charges in Ontario.
01 What Is The Difference Between Murder And Manslaughter?
The main difference is intent. Murder generally requires that the accused meant to cause death, or meant to cause bodily harm they knew was likely to cause death and was reckless about it. Manslaughter is an unlawful killing without the intent required for murder.
02 What Is The Difference Between First And Second-Degree Murder?
First-degree murder includes murder that is planned and deliberate, and certain other murders defined in the Criminal Code. Other murders are second-degree. Both carry a mandatory life sentence, but the period before parole eligibility differs.
03 Can Someone Charged With Murder Get Bail?
Yes, bail is possible, but it must be heard by a judge of the Superior Court of Justice and the accused must generally show why detention is not justified. A well-prepared release plan is essential.
04 Should I Speak To Police If I Am Questioned About A Death?
You have the right to remain silent and the right to speak with a lawyer. Get legal advice before giving any statement. Anything you say can be used as evidence.
05 How Long Do Homicide Cases Take?
Homicide cases often take considerable time because of the volume of disclosure, expert evidence and court scheduling. Your lawyer can explain the expected timeline and protect your right to be tried within a reasonable time.
This page provides general information about Ontario criminal law and is not legal advice. Every case depends on its own facts. Speak with a lawyer about your specific situation. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Need Immediate Answers?
Speak directly with JT Defence Law about your situation.
Confidential. Experienced. Available.
Speak With
JT Defence Law
If you or a family member is facing a homicide-related allegation, contact counsel as early as possible.
- Murder
- Manslaughter
- Superior Court bail
- Jury trials
Proudly representing clients across Toronto and Ontario.
