OTTAWA - The lawyer representing Dennis Oland says he's thrilled the Supreme Court of Canada will hear bail arguments while his client appeals his murder conviction in the death of his father.

Alan Gold was reacting to the decision today that the high court will review Oland's request for bail 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 mother and wife welcomed the news, saying in a statement that they hope the decision brings them a step closer to Oland regaining his freedom.

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.

Oland was handed a life sentence earlier this year and the appeal of his murder conviction is scheduled to begin October 18th.