Anaheim Hills, Orange County - William Mordick, 64, was convicted of one felony count of murder for a crime committed in 1983 of slashing a throat to his then-estranged wife, Kathryn Mordick. The act took place because the Mordicks were going through a bitter divorce and William could not think of paying for child support or losing custody of the children.
The Mordicks were separated for three months prior to the murder. Mordick moved to the state of Washington and opened a photography studio which mainly known for family portraits and weddings.
DNA evidence was found at the scene of the crime which belonged to William. Mordick will be facing life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Under California Law, Murder is the unlawful killing of a human being with malice aforethought. In California, there are two degrees of murder. First degree murder is a second degree murder plus an aggravating factor, therefore it is punished more severely.
Anaheim Hills criminal attorney explains that under California Penal Code Section 190 (a), a conviction of first degree murder carries a sentence of imprisonment for a minimum of 25 years to life. If certain conditions are met, one can be sentenced to the death penalty. One of these conditions is murder committed after lying in wait. In addition, using a firearm to commit murder or any other California felony crime can increase the sentence by 3 to 10 years.
Santa Ana murder defense attorney further explains, whether it is first degree murder, second degree murder, attempted murder, three strikes, homicide or manslaughter, murder is the most serious of all crimes committed, and severely punishes those who violate or break the law. A conviction can and will destroy a person's life. It is imperative for an individual facing a murder charge to retain a highly qualified California murder defense attorney or Orange County felony crime defense lawyer who also has experience in high profile cases as quickly as possible.
At the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti, we have highly experienced attorneys to help reach the best result possible. Our top Orange County criminal defense lawyers will inform you of your rights throughout the pre-trial process, explain the elements that the prosecutor needs to prove for a conviction, familiarize you with all possible defenses you can assert, and defend you in court.
Our law firm also represent clients in all types of other related criminal charges such as domestic violence, assault and battery, murder, attempted murder, hit and run, DUI, drug crimes, white collar crimes, embezzlement, fraud, professional licensing defense, abuse, sex crime, appeals appeals, and habeas corpus.
Our Newport Beach felony defense attorney and Santa Ana felony defense attorneys have successfully defended clients in Orange County, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, Santa Ana, Westminster, Huntington Beach, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Costa Mesa, Tustin, Los Angeles, Long Beach, San Diego, Riverside and San Bernardino.
Whether you have been wrongfully accused of a crime or want to avoid a difficult or unjust sentence, we are available day or night to come to your defense. From misdemeanors to serious felony crimes, the law offices of Michael L. Guisti has the experience and firepower to fight any criminal charges you may face.
Committing murder is a serious charge that has grave consequences. If you or someone you love has been arrested or charged with a felony like murder in the above story, call us today at our toll-free number at (888) 478-8999 for a free no-obligation consultation with our skilled Orange County criminal defense attorneys. You'll be glad you did.
