Murder & Manslaughter Cases

Being charged with murder or manslaughter is one of the most serious charges anyone can face. Your freedom, reputation, and future are at stake, and you need a highly skilled defence lawyer who will fight tirelessly on your behalf.

Steven Lack has over a decade of experience representing clients in some of New Zealand’s most high-profile and complex homicide cases. As a recognised leading criminal lawyer, he provides a strategic and robust defence for those accused of serious violent offences. His focus is on securing the best possible outcome—whether that means an acquittal or a reduced charge.

Why Choose Steven for Your Defence?

  • Trial Experience: he has successfully defended numerous clients in jury trials before the High Court of New Zealand.

  • Proven Results: His expertise in cross-examining key witnesses, forensic experts, and police officers has been instrumental in securing acquittals and reduced sentences.

  • Comprehensive Defence Strategy: Every case is meticulously prepared, leveraging expert testimony, forensic analysis, and detailed legal research.

  • Client-Centred Approach: He understands the immense stress these charges bring, and works closely with clients and their families to ensure a thorough and compassionate defence.

  • Respected Reputation: Recognised as a leading criminal lawyer in Auckland, he has been consistently ranked in Doyle’s Guide since its inception in New Zealand.

Defending Murder & Manslaughter Charges

Every case is unique, and a strong defence requires a deep understanding of forensic evidence, legal precedent, and trial strategy. Steven works with some of the world’s leading forensic experts to challenge:

  • Eyewitness testimony and identification issues

  • Forensic pathology reports on cause of death

  • Police evidence collection methods and procedural errors

  • Self-defence arguments where applicable

  • Issues relating to intent and causation, which are often central to distinguishing between murder and manslaughter

  • Excessive police surveillance, improper interrogation tactics, or breaches of rights that may impact the admissibility of evidence

He takes a proactive approach to every case, ensuring that no stone is left unturned in developing a strong defence. Whether you are facing an intentional homicide charge (murder) or an unintentional killing (manslaughter), Steven will provide a rigorous and strategic defence to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.

Notable Case Experience

R v L

He was part of the defence team that represented a client charged with murder and serious drug dealing offences. The client had shot the deceased and mutilated the body in an attempt to avoid detection by the authorities. At trial the defence case was that their drug dealing relationship had deteriorated and he shot the deceased, who was in possession of a firearm, in self-defence. The trial involved a complex analysis of ballistics and forensic evidence.

R v H & Anor

Represented a young defendant accused of reckless murder following a fatal stabbing. Despite a conviction following trial, Steven successfully argued against a life sentence, securing a finite term instead. The prosecution appealed the sentence, but it was upheld by the Court of Appeal. This case highlighted the importance of distinguishing between degrees of culpability in homicide cases.

R v I

Defended a client in a manslaughter by fright case—one of the first of its kind in New Zealand. The trial involved complex legal arguments on the foreseeability of death and detailed forensic pathology evidence. Successfully challenged key elements of causation and the issue of reasonable foreseeability of death arising from the client’s actions.

R v M

Successfully overturned a manslaughter conviction in the Court of Appeal after demonstrating that his client’s alleged confessions should not have been admitted into evidence at trial as they were unreliable. The statements were subsequently ruled inadmissible in the High Court and the charge of manslaughter was dismissed before the scheduled re-trial. This case involved a deep dive into psychological evidence and expert testimony on wrongful confessions.

Understanding the Legal Process

  • Being charged with murder or manslaughter is overwhelming, and the legal process can be daunting. Here’s what to expect:

  • Investigation & Arrest: If you are under investigation or have been arrested, you need legal representation immediately. Early intervention can significantly impact the outcome.

  • Bail & Pre-Trial Hearings: I will advocate strongly for bail and work to ensure that pre-trial rulings do not unfairly prejudice your case.

  • Case Preparation: This involves gathering evidence, consulting with forensic experts, and preparing witness examinations.

  • Trial: If the case goes to trial, I will provide a rigorous defence, cross-examining witnesses and challenging the prosecution’s evidence.

Get the Defence You Deserve

If you or a loved one is facing a murder or manslaughter charge, choosing the right lawyer is critical. Steven has a proven track record of success in high-stakes cases and is committed to delivering the strongest possible defence. Contact Steven today for an initial consultation.