Facing Homicide Charges in Surrey in 2025 ? Trust Sohi Law Group for Expert Legal Defense

Homicide cases in Surrey are among the most serious criminal charges, carrying life-altering consequences for those involved. Understanding the legal process and knowing your rights is crucial when facing such accusations. This is where experienced criminal lawyers in Surrey, like the dedicated team at Sohi Law Group, play a vital role. With extensive knowledge of Canadian criminal law and a strong commitment to defending clients, Sohi Law Group provides strategic legal representation for individuals accused of homicide. Whether you’re under investigation or facing formal charges, having a skilled legal team by your side can make all the difference in protecting your future.

Definition of Homicide Under Canadian Law

Under Canadian law, homicide is defined as the act of directly or indirectly causing the death of another human being. The Criminal Code of Canada categorizes homicide into two main types: culpable and non-culpable homicide. Culpable homicide encompasses murder (first-degree and second-degree), manslaughter, and infanticide, where there is criminal responsibility for the death. Non-culpable homicide refers to deaths that occur without criminal fault, such as self-defense or other legally justified circumstances. The distinction between these categories is crucial, as it determines both the severity of the offense and the applicable legal consequences.

The Criminal Code specifically outlines that a person commits homicide when they cause the death of a human being by any means, whether through a direct action, such as using a weapon, or through indirect means, such as setting in motion a chain of events that leads to death.. If someone is accused of a homicide in Surrey, consulting experienced criminal lawyers in Surrey, like those at Sohi Law Group, is essential for navigating these complex legal definitions and building a strong defense.

Differentiating Between First-Degree Murder, Second-Degree Murder, Manslaughter, and Infanticide

In Canada, homicide is divided into distinct categories, each carrying different legal consequences. Understanding these differences is crucial, especially when facing serious charges. The experienced Criminal Defense Lawyers at Sohi Law Group can provide expert legal guidance in navigating these complex classifications.

1. First-Degree Murder
   First-degree murder is the most severe form of homicide. It involves a planned and deliberate killing or a murder committed during the commission of certain serious crimes, such as sexual assault or kidnapping. A conviction for first-degree murder results in an automatic life sentence with no parole eligibility for 25 years.
2. Second-Degree Murder
   Second-degree murder is an intentional killing that was not premeditated or planned but was carried out with the intent to cause death or serious harm. Like first-degree murder, it carries a mandatory life sentence, but parole eligibility may be granted after 10 to 25 years, depending on the circumstances.
3. Manslaughter
   Manslaughter occurs when a person causes the death of another through unlawful actions or criminal negligence but without intent to kill. This charge often applies in situations involving reckless behavior or accidental harm. Sentencing for manslaughter can vary widely and may include imprisonment or other penalties, depending on the severity of the case.
4. Infanticide
   Infanticide is a specific charge applied when a mother causes the death of her newborn child (under 12 months old) due to mental disturbance resulting from childbirth or lactation. This recognizes the psychological impact of childbirth and carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison.

Facing any of these serious charges can be overwhelming, but the skilled Criminal Defense Lawyers at Sohi Law Group are dedicated to protecting your rights and building a strong defense tailored to your situation.

Homicide Rates in Surrey: A Closer Look

Surrey has experienced fluctuating homicide rates over the years, reflecting the city’s ongoing challenges with crime and public safety. Factors such as gang violence, drug trafficking, and domestic disputes have significantly contributed to homicide cases in the region. While law enforcement continues to implement crime prevention strategies, certain neighborhoods in Surrey have seen higher rates of violent crime compared to others.

Understanding these trends is crucial, especially for individuals facing serious charges like homicide. The consequences of being involved in such cases can be severe, making it essential to seek immediate legal representation. The experienced Surrey Criminal Lawyers at Sohi Law Group are well-versed in handling complex homicide cases in Surrey. They provide strategic defense solutions aimed at protecting your rights and ensuring a fair trial. Whether it involves challenging evidence or negotiating reduced charges, Sohi Law Group is committed to guiding clients through every step of the legal process.

What are the potential penalties for homicide charges in Surrey, BC?

For first-degree murder, the mandatory sentence is life imprisonment with no possibility of parole for 25 years. Second-degree murder also carries a life sentence, but parole eligibility can range from 10 to 25 years, as determined by the court.

Manslaughter charges, which involve a homicide committed without the intent to kill, have no mandatory minimum sentence (except when a firearm is involved, which carries a 4-year minimum) and can result in anything from a suspended sentence to life imprisonment, depending on the circumstances and aggravating factors. The courts consider various elements when determining sentences, including the accused’s level of responsibility, premeditation, circumstances of the crime, and any mitigating factors such as mental health issues or genuine remorse.

Criminal lawyers in Surrey, including those at Sohi Law Group, employ several established legal defenses when representing clients facing homicide charges. In Surrey’s criminal justice system, common defenses include self-defense, where lawyers must prove their client reasonably believed they were in immediate danger and used proportionate force to protect themselves. Mental disorder defense is another strategy, requiring evidence that the accused couldn’t understand their actions’ nature or wrongfulness due to mental illness at the time of the incident. Lawyers might also pursue an accident or lack of intent defense, demonstrating the death occurred without criminal negligence or intention.

Other defense strategies include challenging the prosecution’s evidence through mistaken identity claims, presenting alibi evidence, or arguing diminished responsibility to potentially reduce murder charges to manslaughter. Criminal defense firms like Sohi Law Group understand that each homicide case requires a carefully tailored defense strategy based on specific circumstances, evidence available, and their client’s situation within Surrey’s legal framework.

What are the next steps if I am facing homicide charges?

If you or a loved one is facing homicide charges in Surrey, immediate legal action is crucial. Contact the Sohi Law Group for a confidential consultation. Our team will carefully assess your case, develop a robust defense strategy, and guide you through the legal complexities. We are here to fight for your rights and strive for the best possible outcome.

Can Self-Defense Be Used as a Legal Defense in Homicide Cases in Surrey?

Yes, self-defense can be used as a legal defense in homicide cases in Surrey under certain conditions. According to the Criminal Code of Canada (Section 34), a person is justified in using force, even deadly force, if they believe it is necessary to protect themselves or others from imminent harm or death. However, this defense is only valid if the response was reasonable and proportionate to the threat faced.

Key factors that courts in Surrey consider when evaluating a self-defense claim include:

• Whether the accused had a reasonable belief that they were in danger.
• Whether the force used was necessary to prevent harm.
• Whether the response was proportionate to the threat.
• Whether the accused had an opportunity to escape or avoid the confrontation.

Using self-defense as a legal argument can be complex and requires presenting clear evidence that supports the claim. This is why it’s crucial to work with skilled Criminal Defense Lawyers in Surrey, like those at Sohi Law Group, who have experience handling homicide cases. They can thoroughly examine the circumstances, gather supporting evidence, and build a strong defense strategy to protect your rights and freedom.

Legal Process for Homicide Charges in Surrey

Facing a homicide charge in Surrey involves a complex and lengthy legal process that requires careful navigation. Understanding each stage is essential for protecting your rights and preparing a solid defense. The experienced Criminal Defense Lawyers in Surrey at Sohi Law Group are dedicated to guiding clients through every step of this challenging process.

1. Arrest and Charges

The legal process begins with an arrest if police have reasonable grounds to believe someone has committed homicide. Following the arrest, formal charges are laid, and the accused will either be released on bail or held in custody.

2. Bail Hearing

A bail hearing determines whether the accused can be released while awaiting trial. The court considers factors such as the seriousness of the offense, flight risk, and potential threat to public safety. Skilled defense lawyers from Sohi Law Group can advocate for bail by presenting strong arguments in favor of release under specific conditions.

3. Disclosure of Evidence

The prosecution must provide the defense with all relevant evidence, including witness statements, forensic reports, and police records. This disclosure allows the defense team to analyze the case and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument.

4. Preliminary Inquiry (If Applicable)

In some cases, a preliminary inquiry is held to determine if there is enough evidence to proceed to trial. This step allows the defense to challenge evidence and question witnesses, potentially leading to a dismissal of charges.

5. Trial Preparation

If the case goes to trial, the defense team works to develop a strategic defense by gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with experts. The Criminal Defense Lawyers in Surrey at Sohi Law Group focus on building a compelling case to challenge the prosecution’s claims.

6. Trial

The trial may be held before a judge alone or a judge and jury, depending on the severity of the charge and the accused’s choice. Both sides present evidence, examine witnesses, and make legal arguments. The defense’s goal is to raise reasonable doubt about the accused’s guilt.

7. Verdict and Sentencing

After reviewing all evidence, the judge or jury delivers a verdict. If found guilty, the accused will proceed to sentencing, where penalties are determined based on the type of homicide charge. Sentences can range from life imprisonment to reduced penalties for lesser charges.

8. Appeals

If convicted, the accused has the right to appeal the verdict or sentence. The appeals process focuses on legal errors made during the trial. The lawyers at Sohi Law Group can help identify grounds for appeal and represent clients in higher courts.

Navigating a homicide charge is complex and intimidating, but having experienced Criminal Defense Lawyers in Surrey, like those at Sohi Law Group, can make a significant difference in achieving the best possible outcome.