Murder, Manslaughter, and Infanticide
Under Canada’s Criminal Code, offences that result in the death of another person are among the most serious. These include murder, manslaughter, and infanticide — each carrying life-altering consequences if convicted. Understanding their legal distinctions is essential to building a proper defence.
At Juzkiw Law, our experienced Toronto murder lawyer provides strong, strategic legal representation for clients accused of any form of homicide.
Culpable Homicide
Culpable homicide refers to deaths caused by unlawful acts, criminal negligence, deception, or actions that frighten or harm a vulnerable person. It can be classified as murder, manslaughter, or infanticide depending on the circumstances and intent.
Murder
Murder occurs when a person intentionally causes the death of another, or causes bodily harm knowing it could result in death. It is divided into two categories:
First-Degree Murder
- Planned and deliberate
- May include murder-for-hire, killing of peace officers, or murders during serious crimes such as kidnapping or sexual assault
- Punishable by life imprisonment with no parole eligibility for 25 years
Second-Degree Murder
- All other types of murder not classified as first-degree
Also punishable by life imprisonment, though parole eligibility may be earlier
Manslaughter
Manslaughter is any culpable homicide that is not murder or infanticide. It often involves unintentional killing due to recklessness, negligence, or actions taken in the heat of passion.
Penalty:
- Up to life imprisonment
- Minimum 4 years if a firearm is used
A murder charge may be reduced to manslaughter if it occurred under sudden provocation, meaning the accused acted impulsively before emotions cooled.
Infanticide
Infanticide applies when a mother causes the death of her newborn child while her mind is disturbed due to the effects of childbirth or lactation.
Penalty:
- Hybrid offence (summary or indictable)
- Up to 5 years imprisonment
Attempted Murder & Accessory After the Fact
Attempted Murder occurs when a person tries but fails to cause another’s death. If a firearm or organized crime is involved, minimum sentences of 4–7 years may apply.
Accessory After the Fact to Murder involves helping someone evade justice after committing murder — punishable by life imprisonment.
Why Choose Juzkiw Law
As one of the best law firms in Toronto, Juzkiw Law has extensive experience handling serious criminal defence cases, including homicide, manslaughter, and attempted murder.
Our team will:
- Conduct a full case review and evidence analysis
- Protect your rights during police investigation and trial
- Build a powerful, evidence-based defence strategy
- Provide clear legal guidance every step of the way
If you or a loved one is facing serious criminal charges, you need more than legal advice — you need a strong defence.
Call (416) 221-2221 now for a confidential consultation with our Toronto murder lawyer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
First-degree murder is planned and deliberate; second-degree murder is intentional but not premeditated.
Yes. If the accused acted in the heat of passion or under provocation, murder charges may be reduced to manslaughter.
Manslaughter carries a maximum of life imprisonment, with a minimum of 4 years if a firearm was used.
An experienced lawyer can analyze evidence, challenge unlawful procedures, and protect your constitutional rights to achieve the best possible outcome.
Do not speak to police without legal counsel. Contact a criminal defence lawyer immediately for advice and representation.
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