The Windsor lawyer of a man facing manslaughter charges is asking for a reduced sentence because of her client’s aboriginal heritage.   

Colin Chrisjohn pleaded guilty in August to the 2015 death of Amir Hayat Malik. The 32-year-old died as a result of blood loss from severe trauma to his body.

Chrisjohn's lawyer, Laura Joy, asked the provincial court judge on Monday for a sentence in the range of four to seven years using the ‘Gladue’ principles.

Joy argues the principles, which are noted in Canadian law, are meant to mitigate a sentence by recognizing aboriginal heritage.

She adds Chrisjohn experienced racism in his youth and has struggled with a learning disability and alcohol abuse.

The Crown wants a nine-year sentence for Chrisjohn, pointing out Malik died from more than one punch and stab wound, and Chrisjohn did not make an attempt to save his friends life.

The judge is scheduled to sentence Chrisjohn on Jan. 26, 2017.