Murder & Manslaughter
Murder in the Criminal Code
Murder is often regarded as the most serious offence found in the Canadian Criminal Code. This is because it is the only offence that comes with a mandatory minimum of life imprisonment. While the minimum periods of parole ineligibility differ between first-degree murder and second-degree murder, both have mandatory minimum life sentences. This is why it is crucial that you hire an experienced Edmonton murder lawyer if you find yourself charged with murder.
Evidence in Murder Cases
While murder charges often revolve around circumstantial (or indirect) evidence, because of the serious nature of the offence, murder charges are prosecuted much more vigorously than other charges. Additionally, they often involve much more forensic evidence than other cases. For example, they may involve DNA evidence, fingerprint evidence, ballistics (or gunshot residue) evidence, blood-spatter evidence, and trace evidence, amongst other things. Stacey is an Edmonton criminal defence lawyer who has dealt with world- renowned experts in each of these fields. She also has a strong science background which gives her the unique ability to understand what the experts are saying and to be able to ask the tough questions.
Over the years, Stacey has successfully defended a number of individuals charged with murder and has yet to have a client convicted of murder. If you have been charged with murder, and are in need of an Edmonton criminal lawyer, call Purser Law for a free consultation at 1-800-523-6202 or book online now.
Read Our Reviews
Purser Law is a highly regarded Criminal Defence & Appeals law firm based in Edmonton.
When it comes to criminal law, Purser Law stands out as a reliable and experienced choice for anyone in need of an experienced Edmonton Criminal Lawyer. Take a look at our Google reviews to see for yourself what makes Purser Law one the most highly rated Criminal Law firms in Edmonton.
Notable Cases
R v J.W., 2023 ABKB 101
After successfully arguing that our clients confession was not voluntary, the Crown called no evidence and our client was acquitted (i.e., found not guilty) of first-degree murder.
R. v A.H., 2023 ABKB (Unreported)
After retaining two defence experts, a medical examiner and DNA analyst, to defend against the case, the Crown stayed (i.e., dropped) charges of second-degree murder against Stacey and Cateline's client.
R v J.M., 2020 ABPC (Unreported)
Despite being charged with second-degree murder, Stacey successfully negotiated a six-year sentence to a manslaughter plea in relation to a shooting incident. The client was then eligible for parole after serving less than two years of the sentence.
R v J.M., 2020 ABQB (Unreported)
Stacey obtained bail for her client charged with second- degree murder in relation to a shooting incident.
R v R.P., 2019 ABQB (Unreported)
As remarked by the trial judge, after mounting a “spirited” defence for her client, Stacey’s client was acquitted of second-degree murder.
R v G.A., 2019 ABCA 223
Stacey successfully defended a client convicted of manslaughter and discharge with intent from a Crown Sentence Appeal, at the Alberta Court of Appeal, where the Crown sought to increase the sentence from 12 to 15 years imprisonment. Their appeal was denied.
R v J.P, 2019 ABCA (Unreported)
After arguing that her client would not have entered a guilty plea to manslaughter had a joint-submission not been agreed to, Stacey was able to convince the Crown to consent to a sentence appeal, reducing a sentence of 20 years to 10 years.