Attempted Murder

Facing an attempted murder charge in Edmonton is an extremely serious legal situation, and it demands experienced and strategic legal defence.

Attempted murder is among the most severe offences under Canadian criminal law, carrying potential life imprisonment if convicted. Geoff Green, a seasoned criminal defence lawyer in Edmonton, provides skilled legal representation for individuals accused of attempted murder, leveraging over 25 years of experience in Alberta’s criminal courts to defend his clients effectively.

Understanding Attempted Murder Charges in Alberta

Attempted murder charges require the Crown to prove an intention to kill and actions taken towards committing the crime.

In Canada, the charge of attempted murder differs from murder in that the act did not result in death, but the accused is alleged to have intended to kill and taken substantial steps toward that outcome. According to the Criminal Code of Canada, the prosecution must establish intent and show beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused’s actions were directed towards killing another person.

Key Elements in Attempted Murder Cases:

• Intent: Unlike other violent crimes such as assault, attempted murder requires proof of a specific intent to kill.
• Actions Taken: Evidence must demonstrate that the accused took deliberate steps, beyond mere preparation, to carry out the act.

An experienced defence lawyer like Geoff Green can challenge the evidence, examine witness reliability, and question the intent as claimed by the Crown. His understanding of criminal law ensures that clients receive robust legal strategies tailored to their cases.

The Defence Strategy for Attempted Murder Charges

Defending against attempted murder requires a comprehensive approach, focusing on disproving intent and examining the strength of the evidence.

Effective defence strategies can include disputing the existence of intent, challenging the credibility of witnesses, and questioning the admissibility of evidence. Geoff Green’s extensive courtroom experience means he is skilled in building a strong defence by analyzing all facets of a case.

Common Defence Approaches:

• Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that while an incident may have occurred, there was no intent to kill.
• Self-Defence: Arguing that the accused’s actions were necessary for self-protection or to prevent imminent harm.
• Provocation: Does not reduce attempted murder to attempted manslaughter. However, provocation may be a piece of evidence to use regarding the specific intent to kill. What this means is that if the provocation produced in the accused a level of anger so that the accused did not contemplate the consequences of his act and did not intend those consequences.

Geoff Green works closely with clients to uncover all possible defences, drawing on his extensive experience in Edmonton’s legal system to protect clients’ rights and seek the best possible outcomes.

Sentencing and Penalties for Attempted Murder

Attempted murder carries severe penalties, including the possibility of life imprisonment.

The severity of the sentence depends on various factors, such as the use of a firearm or the presence of aggravating circumstances. If a firearm is involved, mandatory minimum sentences apply under Canadian law, influencing how a court may decide a case.

Sentencing Overview:

Factor	Minimum Sentence	Maximum Sentence
Attempted Murder (General)	None	Life imprisonment
Attempted Murder (Firearm)	4 years	Life imprisonment

Understanding the potential consequences is essential. Geoff Green’s extensive knowledge of sentencing precedents and factors ensures clients are informed and prepared at every stage.

Legal Process for Attempted Murder Charges in Edmonton

Navigating the legal process for an attempted murder charge requires attention to detail and expertise in criminal procedure.

Attempted murder cases typically proceed to the Court of King’s Bench of Alberta, where indictable offences are tried. Geoff Green’s experience with preliminary hearings, bail applications, and full trials positions him to offer comprehensive legal support.

Stages of the Legal Process:

1. Arrest and Detention: Understanding your rights during the arrest and ensuring immediate legal counsel.
2. Bail Hearing: Presenting a strong case to obtain bail, focusing on ensuring the accused’s ability to prepare for trial outside of custody.
3. Preliminary Hearing: Determining if there is sufficient evidence for a trial.
4. Trial: Conducting a full defence, including cross-examining witnesses and presenting evidence.
5. Appeals (if necessary): Exploring options for appeal if the outcome is unfavourable.

Geoff’s approach to each stage includes a thorough review of the evidence, strategic case planning, and proactive communication with clients to ensure they remain informed.

Importance of an Experienced Defence Lawyer for Attempted Murder Cases

The complexities of an attempted murder charge require a defence lawyer with extensive knowledge of criminal law and trial experience.

Geoff Green’s practice emphasizes the importance of a strong, personalized defence. With decades of experience in criminal law, including cases of serious violent crime, Geoff understands the stakes and complexities involved in attempted murder cases.

Why Choose Geoff Green for your defence:

• Over 25 Years of Criminal Law Experience: Expert in defending against severe charges in Edmonton and Alberta.
• In-Depth Knowledge of Local Courts: Familiarity with the judges, prosecutors, and court procedures in Edmonton.
• Client-Focused Representation: Prioritizes the rights and well-being of each client, offering clear guidance and strategic defence planning.

Frequently Asked Questions about Attempted Murder Charges in Alberta

What distinguishes an attempted murder charge from other serious criminal offences in Alberta?

Attempted murder charges require proof that the accused had the specific intent to kill and took deliberate actions to carry out that intent, even if the outcome did not result in death. This differs from charges like aggravated assault or manslaughter, where intent to kill may not be necessary. Engaging an experienced Edmonton criminal defence lawyer is essential for navigating the complexities and high stakes involved in such a charge.

How can an attempted murder conviction impact an individual’s future in Alberta?

An attempted murder conviction is a serious offence that can result in life-altering consequences, including lengthy prison sentences and a permanent criminal record. This can severely limit future employment opportunities and personal freedoms. Seeking skilled legal services from experienced criminal defence lawyers is crucial to mitigate these long-term impacts.

How do courts determine the sentence for attempted murder in Alberta, especially if bodily harm is inflicted?

Sentencing for attempted murder in Alberta can be severe, especially if significant bodily harm occurred during the act. Factors such as premeditation, the use of a weapon, and the extent of injuries inflicted are considered. Defence strategies crafted by an experienced trial lawyer can argue mitigating circumstances or challenge evidence to influence sentencing outcomes.

Can a charge of attempted murder be connected with other charges such as sexual assault or aggravated assault?

Yes, attempted murder can be accompanied by other charges, such as sexual assault or aggravated assault, particularly if these acts were part of the same incident. Each charge carries its own legal consequences and evidentiary requirements. A seasoned Edmonton criminal lawyer can help defend against such complex multi-charge cases, ensuring that the best interests of the accused are represented throughout the justice process.

Why is it important to have an experienced murder defence lawyer when facing attempted murder charges?

Attempted murder charges are among the most serious criminal offences and require thorough legal expertise to defend effectively. An experienced murder defence lawyer in Edmonton can examine evidence, challenge the prosecution’s claims of intent, and present alternative narratives or defences. This level of advocacy is vital to achieve the best possible outcome in a highly complex legal situation.

Contact Geoff Green for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one are facing attempted murder charges in Edmonton, do not wait to secure qualified legal representation.

Geoff Green offers a free initial consultation to discuss your case, provide insight into your options, and outline a potential defence strategy. With a proven record of handling complex criminal cases, Geoff is ready to stand by your side and advocate for your rights.

Reach Out Today

Call Geoff Green at (780) 914-1836 for a free consultation. Take the first step toward protecting your future with an experienced Edmonton criminal defence lawyer who understands the seriousness of attempted murder charges and is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.