Homicide Lawyer Toronto

Being charged with homicide, murder, manslaughter, or any offence involving the death of another person is among the most serious situations an individual can face under Canadian criminal law.

 

A conviction can result in life imprisonment, lengthy periods of parole ineligibility, and consequences that will affect every aspect of your future. If you are under investigation or have been charged, securing experienced legal representation immediately is critical.

 

At Michael Coristine Law, we provide strategic, trial-ready defence for individuals facing the most serious offences under the Criminal Code of Canada, including:

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• Homicide (Criminal Code s. 222)

• First Degree Murder and Second Degree Murder (Criminal Code s. 229)

• Manslaughter (Criminal Code s. 234)

• Attempted Murder (Criminal Code s. 239)

• Accessory After the Fact to Murder (Criminal Code s. 240)

• Criminal Negligence (Criminal Code s. 219)

• Causing Death by Criminal Negligence (Criminal Code s. 220)

• Failure to Provide the Necessaries of Life (Criminal Code s. 215)

• Duty of Persons Undertaking Acts (Criminal Code s. 216)

• Infanticide (Criminal Code s. 233)

• Administering a Noxious Thing (Criminal Code s. 245)

 

Homicide investigations are conducted by specialized police units comprised of highly trained investigators whose sole focus is gathering evidence for the prosecution. These cases often involve extensive forensic evidence, expert witnesses, digital evidence, witness statements, and complex legal issues. Prosecuting homicide offences is typically entrusted to the most experienced Crown Attorneys due to the complexity and seriousness of the allegations.

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Special bail provisions also apply in many homicide and murder cases. These hearings are significantly more complex than standard bail proceedings and require careful preparation, strategic advocacy, and a comprehensive understanding of criminal procedure. The stakes are exceptionally high, as an accused person may remain in custody while awaiting trial.

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Most murder cases proceed before a judge and jury. Success in these cases requires far more than knowledge of the Criminal Code. Defence counsel must understand the prosecution's theory, anticipate evidentiary challenges, scrutinize police conduct, challenge expert evidence where appropriate, and develop a clear and persuasive trial strategy. Equally important is the ability to effectively communicate complex legal concepts and reasonable doubt to a jury.

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As a former Senior Crown Attorney, Michael Coristine was entrusted with prosecuting some of the most serious criminal offences in Ontario, including homicide-related matters. His work has been recognized on multiple occasions by the Toronto Police Service. Today, he leverages that experience, insight, and understanding of how serious prosecutions are built to defend individuals facing murder, manslaughter, criminal negligence causing death, and other homicide-related allegations.

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If you have been charged with homicide, murder, manslaughter, attempted murder, or any offence involving the death of another person, contact Michael Coristine Law immediately. Early intervention can be critical to protecting your rights, challenging the prosecution's case, and building the strongest possible defence.