Canada’s highest court will decide if New Brunswick businessman Dennis Oland can be released from prison while he appeals his murder conviction in the death of his own father.
The Supreme Court of Canada says it will hear arguments from Oland’s lawyers about his bail request as early as possible in the fall session.
The high court doesn’t usually provide explanations on decisions whether to hear an appeal, and it did not do so in Oland’s case.
Oland’s lawyers had asked for an expedited decision on his bail application after he was convicted of second-degree murder in the death of his father, businessman Richard Oland.
They argued the New Brunswick courts applied “high standards” that are out of step with similar cases elsewhere in Canada, and wanted the high court to reconsider the matter in a more timely fashion.
READ MORE: Dennis Oland again denied bail by New Brunswick appeal court
The former investment adviser was handed a life sentence earlier this year after his father was found dead in his Saint John office in July 2011.
A statement released today by Connie Oland, Dennis’ mother, and Lisa Oland, Dennis’ wife, said the Supreme Court decision is welcome news.
“Our feelings are what any family would experience in our situation. We are obviously very emotional. We hope this decision brings us a step close to Dennis regaining his freedom. Dennis’ absence these last few months has been incredibly difficult and has compounded the loss and anguish our family has suffered since Dick’s murder. “
With files from Global News