Areas of Practice

When everything is on the line

Homicide Defence

No charge carries higher stakes than homicide. A murder or manslaughter allegation places your liberty, your family, and your future in the hands of the justice system — and the quality of your defence becomes the most important decision you will ever make.

Rebecca B. Snukal, K.C. has defended homicide cases for over two decades, including matters that reached the Supreme Court of Canada. Every file receives forensic scrutiny: the police investigation, the physical evidence, witness reliability, and every Charter issue that can be raised in your favour.

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Immediate case strategy from the moment of arrest or investigation

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Rigorous cross-examination of Crown witnesses and experts

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Charter challenges to searches, statements, and police conduct

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Appellate experience up to the Supreme Court of Canada

Frequently Asked questions.

What is the difference between murder and manslaughter?
Murder requires proof of an intention to kill or to cause bodily harm the accused knew was likely to cause death. Manslaughter is a culpable homicide committed without that intent — for example, an unlawful act or criminal negligence that results in death. The distinction is often the central battleground of a homicide trial.
What are the penalties for homicide in Canada?
First-degree murder carries an automatic life sentence with no parole eligibility for 25 years. Second-degree murder carries a life sentence with parole eligibility set between 10 and 25 years by the sentencing judge. Manslaughter carries no mandatory minimum unless a firearm was used in the commission of the offence.
Can I get bail on a murder charge?
It is possible, but murder is treated differently from other offences. Bail for murder can only be granted by a Justice of the Court of King's Bench of Alberta, and the onus falls on the accused to show why detention is not justified. An experienced defence lawyer is essential to preparing a strong release plan.
The police want to speak with me about a death. What should I do?
Exercise your right to silence and speak with a criminal defence lawyer before answering any questions. You are constitutionally entitled to counsel under section 10(b) of the Charter, and anything you say to investigators can be used against you — even in an 'informal' conversation.

The information on this page is general legal information about Canadian criminal law and Alberta procedure. It is not legal advice, and it does not create a lawyer–client relationship. Every case turns on its own facts — contact Snukal Law Office for advice about your specific situation.

When it matters most

Facing a charge? Talk to us first.

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