A preliminary inquiry for Calvin Wade Laughlin began in Drumheller on Thursday, May 29.
Laughlin was charged with manslaughter in May of 2011.
Austin Neil McMaster, 55, was found unconscious and beaten in the neighbourhood of Nacmine on the morning of May 4, 2011.
McMaster was taken to a Calgary hospital where he was subsequently taken off life support and succumbed to his injuries.
Laughlin has pleaded not guilty and elected Court of Queen's bench for his trial. He is representing himself in the matter.