Murder & Manslaughter

A murder allegation is the most serious charge that can be brought against in a Canadian court of law. First-degree murder, second-degree murder, and manslaughter may all result in severe jail sentences up to life in prison. Due to the gravity of this offence, the need to select a qualified, competent criminal lawyer is ever more essential.

First and second-degree murder and manslaughter are classified as homicides, though they differ in their degrees of responsibility. Culpability is measured by intent. First degree murder involves a level of intention and planning, thereby resulting in death. 

Second-degree murder encompasses intentional homicides which are not classified as first-degree. These cases do not fit the more specific category of first-degree murder. 

Manslaughter differs from first and second-degree murder in that there is no intent to kill. There are two types of manslaughter: unlawful act manslaughter and criminal negligence causing death. 

Unlawful act manslaughter refers to death occurring in the process of another illegal act. For example, the intentional armed robbery resulting in unintentional death would constitute unlawful act manslaughter.  Criminal negligence causing death refers to a behavior which deviates from the standard, in that a reasonable person in a certain situation would foresee death or bodily harm as a result of this unusual behavior. This reasonable response is referred to as the foreseeability requirement. 

Book Free Consultation


WHY CHOOSE US

At Karrass Law, we win.


Delivering the highest level of representation, focusing on strategic arguments that provide our clients with the best possible outcome for their individual cases.

Request a Free Consultation
  • Best Possible Representation

    We take care to formulate the strongest, smartest, and most compelling arguments for your case, representing your best interest, so you can count on the best possible results.

  • Offers Dignity & Respect

    Regardless of the details of your case, the Karrass Law team treats all of our clients with the dignity and respect they deserve.

  • Award-Winning Lawyer

    The Karrass Law team is powered by award-winning lawyers, including Robert Karrass, who is the recipient of the Kenneth Gibson Morden Memorial Prize and was also considered a Leading Lawyer to Watch in the Lexpert Rising Stars Competition.

  • Range of Expertise

    We specialize in a wide range of legal services, priding ourselves on offering expert representation in criminal cases, civil litigation, appeals, administrative hearings and more.

  • Exceptional Customer Service

    Our team is accessible via calls and emails, responding to all your follow-up questions, concerns, and inquiries promptly, so you can get the clarity you deserve.

  • Education & Experience

    At Karrass Law, we pride ourselves on our extensive legal education and expertise. With our team's exceptional knowledge and training, including Robert Karrass's Doctorate in jurisprudence, we bring a high level of competence to every case we handle.

Please, enter a valid value