No criminal allegations are more serious than those that involve death. Culpable homicide occurs when one directly or indirectly causes the death of another person through an unlawful act, or due to criminal negligence. Depending on the nature of the allegations, a defendant accused of homicide may be charged with first degree murder, second degree murder, or manslaughter.
At N.J. Preovolos Law Corporation, our New Westminster murder/manslaughter defence lawyer believes that everyone deserves their day in court. We are qualified to handle the most serious and complex of criminal cases. To set up a completely confidential consultation with an experienced British Columbia homicide defence lawyer, please call our New Westminster office today.
An Overview of Murder/Manslaughter Chargers in British Columbia
Under Criminal Code s.222(1), homicide is either culpable or non-culpable. A non-culpable homicide is not a criminal offence. Some examples of non-culpable homicide include lawfully justified self-defence and non-negligent accidents. In contrast, culpable homicide involves some form of criminal misconduct. Culpable homicide is a very serious offence in British Columbia. These charges generally fit into one of the following three categories:
- First Degree Murder: First degree murder is the most serious homicide charge in British Columbia. Under Criminal Code s.229, prosecutors must prove that the defendant: (1) Intentionally caused the victim’s death or (2) intentionally and recklessly caused grave bodily harm to the victim. Additionally, first degree murder requires that the homicide was planned and deliberate. A conviction generally carries a minimum sentence of 25 years in prison.
- Second Degree Murder: Second degree murder covers all murder offences that do not rise to the level of first degree. Essentially, a second murder will be charged if the prosecution cannot establish that the unlawful killing was planned and deliberate. While second degree murder carries less severe penalties than first degree murder, it is still a very serious charge.
- Manslaughter: Manslaughter is culpable homicide that does not rise to the level of murder. Most often, manslaughter is charged when a person is accused of unintentionally causing a death through criminal negligence or otherwise unlawfully reckless conduct. Though, a murder charge could be reduced to manslaughter if there is evidence of provocation.
You do not have to defend a serious criminal charge on your own. With so much on the line, you need a professional advocate by your side. Nicholas J. Preovolosis an experienced New Westminster murder/manslaughter criminal defence lawyer. He will put in the time and resources to investigate your case and help you put together the most effective defence strategy.
Contact Our New Westminster Homicide Defence Lawyer Today
At N.J. Preovolos Law Corporation, our New Westminster murder & manslaughter defence lawyer provides representation that you can trust during the most difficult times. If you or your loved one is facing a homicide charge, we will protect your rights. Contact us today for a fully confidential initial consultation. With an office in New Westminster, we represent clients throughout British Columbia, including in Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby, Richmond, and Coquitlam.
