The trial began today for the Canadian man who allegedly slayed his Chinese lover in 2012 and mailed his body parts to schools and political parties around the country. 

Luka Magnotta, now 32, faces five charges. If convicted, he could be sentenced to life in prison. 

The case is being tried almost two years later in Montreal after delays due to a crowded court calendar and difficulty selecting jurors, reports BBC. Almost 1,600 people were interviewed to be part of the bilingual jury. 

Magnotta's lawyer was adamant that the jury was going to be open-minded and listen to the trial that has been globally reported by the media. 

If the prosecution finds Magnotta did not intentionally kill victim Jun Lin he may receive a lesser charge of second-degree murder or manslaughter, reports BBC.

Magnotta was called schizophrenic and not criminally responsible in his opening remarks at the trial by his lawyer today, reports The Republic. 

About 60 witnesses are expected to be called to the stand in the six weeks the trial will likely last for.