Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog

Irvine, Orange County - Doctor Conrad Murray was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter in the death of Michael Jackson and since the announcement of the verdict there has been some curiously as to what is involuntary manslaughter.

Irvine criminal attorney Michael L. Guisti explains under Penal Code 192(b) involuntary manslaughter is an unlawful killing that takes place during an unlawful act that isn't a felony, and/or a lawful act that involves a high risk of death that is committed without caution.

Involuntary manslaughter is always charged as a felony.

In the case of Murray within the professional medical community he gave an unusually large amount of propofol to Jackson outside a hospital setting, however with Murray being a doctor it was a lawful to give Jackson the drug, but Murray should've known that giving so much propofol to a patient involves a high risk of death, according to Guisti.

The Los Angeles District Attorney based its involuntary manslaughter case, and successfully proved to the jury, that Murray being a professional licensed medical doctor should've known providing his client, Michael Jackson, with a large dose of propofol beyond what is recommended involved a high risk of death, says Guisti.

Further helping the prosecution's case were many doctors and medical experts who told the jury that they never heard of propofol being administered outside a hospital setting nor have they ever heard of so much propofol being given to any patient, says Guisti.

Murray administered the drug to Jackson at Jackson's home in Los Angeles.

Fans of Jackson have wondered why Murray wasn't charged with murder.

The difference between involuntary manslaughter and murder is involuntary manslaughter is basically an accident, despite knowing or reasonable knowing your actions involved a high risk of death, and you didn't mean nor intend to kill the person, says Guisti.

Murder, Guisti goes on to say, is the unlawful killing of with malice aforethought and basically you planned and wanted to kill the person.

Murray didn't mean or intend to kill Jackson when he administrated the propofol to the pop star, and the LAPD's and DA's investigation shows Murray never had any intention on planning on killing Jackson, say Guisti, and so that's why he was charged with involuntary manslaughter.

If you're facing manslaughter charges you must call the Orange County murder attorney experts at the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti right away at 888-478-8999 so we can prepare a winning case for you.

Los Angeles - Doctor Conrad Murray was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter in the death of Michael Jackson on Monday.

Murray was ordered into custody until his sentencing hearing on November 29.

Irvine criminal attorney Michael L. Guisti explains that Murray could face a maximum of four years in state prison, but it's unlikely he'll serve such a period of time.

In determining Murray's sentencing, Guisti goes on to say, the judge is going to have to consider the extent of the crime itself, and in this case it was administering a major drug that should only be used in a professional medical setting since it could be fatal. Furthermore the judge is going to have to consider Murray's criminal record, which Murray lacks, according to Guisti.

If a prison sentence is imposed you have to remember California has a prison overcrowding problem that the Supreme Court had to get involved with, and prison officials will realistically come to the conclusion that Murray isn't a threat to the community and he'll probably just be in prison for a very short time, if at all, says Guisti.

The big issue for Murray following Monday's "guilty" verdict will be his medical license being revoked, says Guisti.

It's also possible Michael Jackson's family will sue Murray in civil court, says Guisti.

If you have a professional license, says Guisti, even misdemeanor cases against you could cause your license to be revoked, which is why it's very important to have a professional defense attorney by your side if you're being accused of a crime.

The crime of involuntary manslaughter is when a person commits an unlawful act that isn't a felony, like giving hospital drugs to a patient in a outside of a hospital, that causes a person to die, says Guisti.

If you're facing involuntary manslaughter charges call the Orange County manslaughter attorney experts at the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti right away at 888-478-8999.

Buena Park, Orange County - A man was arrested early Thursday for alleged DUI in Buena Park after he apparently lost control of his pickup truck and drove it into a swimming pool.

Police say the suspect dropped his iPhone, leaned over to grab it, bumped his knee with the steering wheel and lost control of the truck, which went through a brick wall and into a swimming pool.

The driver wasn't hurt and police conducted a DUI test.

Santa Ana criminal attorney Michael L. Guisti explains that since nobody else was hurt the suspect won't be charged with any other crime other than DUI.

Now had the pickup truck hit the house and injured somebody the suspect could have faced a more serious charge of DUI with injury, or if somebody was killed he could have faced vehicular manslaughter charges, according to Guisti.

There is always the question of whether or not the driver really was DUI at the time of the accident, says Guisti.

An experienced DUI defense attorney will cross-examine the police officer as to whether he first asked the driver if he had physical impairments that would make it difficult to perform the tests, especially after being in an accident, says Guisti. The defense attorney, Guisti goes on to say, needs to point out to the jury that many of them would have similar difficulties performing these same tests, even under the most optimal circumstances.

Being arrested for DUI doesn't automatically make you guilty of DUI and if you've been involved in an accident it may be difficult to properly perform a DUI test, which could easily result in a false DUI test result, says Guisti.

If you've been arrested for drunk driving you need to call the Orange County DUI attorney experts at the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti right away at 888-478-8999.

Santa Ana, Orange County - An Irvine woman was in court Friday morning arranged on vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence charges as prosecutors allege she ran a red light while driving distracted and crashed into another car, killing the driver of that car.

Irvine criminal attorney Michael L. Guisti explains that under Penal Code (PC) 192(c) vehicular manslaughter is when you drive in an unlawful way, or if you drive in a lawful but dangerous way. Furthermore you can be charged with this crime if you staged an accident for insurance purposes and somebody was killed, and you'll probably also face insurance fraud charges, Guisti goes on to say.

Guisti explains if, for example, you're looking at your cell-phone or texting while driving and accidentally hit somebody and kill them you'll likely face this charge.

It's very important to have an attorney if you're facing this charge, Guisti explains, because it's a "wobbler," meaning it can be charged either as a misdemeanor or felony, and that can make the difference between something like a fine or a ten year in prison if convicted of felony vehicular manslaughter.

If you're facing vehicular manslaughter contact our Orange County vehicular manslaughter attorney specialists at the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti at 888-478-8999 so we can give you the best defense in Orange County with the best outcome.

Los Angeles - This week the high-profile trial of Michael Jackson's personal physician Conrad Murray began at the Criminal Courts Building in Los Angeles where prosecutors allege Murray gave the King of Pop an overdose of Propofol that led to his death.

Murray is being charged with involuntary manslaughter as the L.A. District Attorney alleges criminal negligence on Murray's part since he administered such a large dose of the anesthetic as a sleep aid rather than its intended use where small amounts are used to help put people "under" for surgery.

Irvine criminal attorney Michael L. Guisti explains that criminal negligence in involuntary manslaughter means that the death was not the result of inattention or a downright mistake, but it was a reasonably foreseeable consequence.

In this case, the prosecution alleges, Murray knew or should have reasonably known, being a medical doctor, giving Jackson so much Propofol would result in dire consequences, says Guisti.

Under Penal Code 192 involuntary manslaughter is a felony and if convicted Murray could face up to four year in state prison and lose his medical license.

Even if Murray isn't found guilty it's possible he could still face issues retaining his professional license, says Guisti.

If you're facing involuntary manslaughter charges call the Orange County manslaughter attorney specialists at the Law Office of Michael L. Guisti at 888-478-8999 so you can have the best defense available with the best outcome possible.

Santa Ana, Orange County - A Fountain Valley man, Robert Char, 49, has now been charged with one felony count of murder with a sentencing enhancement for use of a deadly weapon on his mother last year. Char was arraigned earlier this week.

Last July, Char pled guilty to the attempted murder of his 74 year old mother now deceased, Joyce Char, in her home and was sentenced to nine years on that charge and six years for elder abuse, resisting arrest and other allegations.

There was a fight between Char and his mother. It was over chores around the house. It was reported that Char had struck his mother with a shovel. Joyce Char was hospitalized in a coma until December 2010, when she died. According to California Murder defense attorney Michael Guisti, if convicted of murder, Robert Char could face 26 years to life in state prison.

According to the top California Criminal Murder Defense Lawyer, Michael Guisti explains that 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.

The Orange County criminal defense attorney and Fullerton criminal lawyer states 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.

Our 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 that if you are facing a murder charge to retain a strong and powerful California murder defense lawyer who has experience in high profile murder cases.

At the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti, we have highly skilled 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 including domestic violence, assault and battery, attempted murder, hit and run, DUI, drug crimes, white collar crimes, embezzlement, fraud, driving with a suspended license, professional licensing defense, abuse, sex crime and bench warrants.

Our Anaheim felony defense attorney and Santa Ana felony defense lawyers have successfully defended clients in most cities within Orange County.

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 expertise to fight any criminal charges you are facing.

Committing murder is a serious charge that has grave consequences. If you or someone you love has been arrested or charged with a felony in Orange County, Los angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside or San Diego, call us today at our toll-free number at (888) 478-8999 for a free no-obligation consultation with our strong and powerful Orange County criminal attorneys. You'll be glad you did!

Santa Ana, Orange County - Late last month, Robert Charles Serrano, 37, was convicted of killing Corban White, an 18-year-old lady by rear-ending the car where she was riding as a passenger.

On the morning of January 3, 2010, Serrano was extremely intoxicated after consuming several alcoholic beverages, while at Jasper's bar in Santa Ana. Serrano was driving his vehicle eastbound on MacArthur Blvd. while under the influence of alcohol. He has a passenger sitting in the passenger seat. At the intersection of MacArthur Blvd. and Main Street in Santa Ana, Serrano failed to stop and crashed into the back of a Toyota Scion, which was stopped at a red light. After the crash, Serrano exited his vehicle and fled the scene on foot. He was later arrested at his mother's home in Fountain Valley.

Several other persons and vehicles were involved in this tragic accident. Most of whom experienced minor injuries except for Ms. White. She was transported to the hospital and died due to blunt force trauma to the head as a result of the crash.

Serrano pled guilty to one felony count of gross vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence while intoxicated. Serrano also admitted to sentencing enhancements and allegations for causing bodily injury to multiple victims, fleeing the scene, a prior strike conviction for a 1992 robbery, a prior conviction for DUI in 2005 in California, and two prior convictions for DUI in 1997 and a reckless driving involving alcohol in 1999 in the state of Washington according to reports.

Serrano faces a maximum sentence of 33 years in state prison. The hearing will take place on April 14, 2011.

According to top Orange County Criminal DUI Defense Lawyers, Michael Guisti tells that driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense. The offense becomes more serious when someone is injured. In California, a DUI charge is broken into two prongs. The first part is defined under California Vehicle code section 23152 (a). It states that it is unlawful for a person to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

According to the Newport Beach DUI attorney the second prong is defined in California Vehicle code section 23151(b). It states that it is unlawful for a person to driver under the influence of alcohol if his blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08% or more. These are separate charges and it is common for a person being charged with a DUI to be charged with both.

The Irvine DUI attorney further explains that these charges are considered misdemeanors in California. The punishments can be the suspension of your license, fines, and/or having an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle. However, if you have multiple DUI charges or have been convicted of a DUI three times within the last 10 years upon receiving a DUI charge, it can turn into a felony.

Additionally, our Irvine criminal defense attorney and Vehicular Manslaughter lawyer states that under California Penal Code Section 191.5(a), "Gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated is the unlawful killing of a human being without malice aforethought, in the driving of a vehicle, where the driving was in violation of Sections 23140, 23152, or 23153 of the Vehicle Code, and the killing was either the proximate result of the commission of an unlawful act, not amounting to a felony, and with gross negligence, or the proximate result of the commission of a lawful act that might produce death, in an unlawful manner, and with gross negligence."

If you or someone you care has been arrested for a Orange County DUI, DWI, drunk driving, or charges such as gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, it is imperative that you contact a strong and powerful DUI Defense attorney as soon as possible. Our Southern California DUI Defense lawyers at Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti has more than ten years of experience defending defendants from DUI and gross vehicular manslaughter cases statewide.

Our Westminster DUI defense lawyer explains that many people do not know that they must request a hearing within 10 days of getting a ticket for DUI/DWI or risk having your drivers license suspended. Failure to do so will guarantee suspension of license.

If you or someone you care has been arrested or charged with DUI in Orange County, it is important to consult with a strong and powerful Orange County DUI defense lawyer immediately.

A leading Orange County DUI defense law firm, the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti, our Newport Beach DUI attorneys, Irvine DUI Attorney, Fullerton DUI attorney, Santa Ana DUI attorney, Huntington Beach DUI attorney, and Westminster DUI attorney have sucessfully represented hundreds of defendants arrested and/or accused of DUI, drunk driving, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Often times, we can help our clients have their charges reduced to a minimum or obtain a dismissal, subject to proof of evidence.

Why is it important to hire an experienced Irvine DUI defense attorney or an Orange County Vehicular Manslaughter attorney?

Having a DUI charge on your record is serious. Many employers will complete a background check prior to deciding to hire you. At the Law Offices of Michael Guisti, our qualified Orange County criminal defense attorney has been very successful representing defendants in DUI cases in Orange Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, and San Diego Counties.

If you or a loved one is facing a DUI in Orange County, Driving under the influence, Drunk driving, driving drunk or vehicular manslaughter, whether it is a misdemeanor or a felony or any kind of crimes, including assault, battery, murder, theft crimes, white collar crimes, sex crimes or a drug crime please contact our Orange County defense lawyers or Orange County criminal attorney today. Call for an appointment at (714) 530-9690 or visit our website at www.topcalifornialawyer.com. You'll be glad you did.

Santa Ana, Orange County - Last week, 39-year old Patricia Ann Izquieta of Riverside, was sentenced to three years in state prison for killing Donald Murphy due to driving under the influence (DUI) and hit and run.

He pled guilty to one felony hit and run with permanent death or injury, one felony count of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated without gross negligence, and one misdemeanor count of driving without a valid license with a sentencing enhancement for causing great bodily injury.due to driving under the influence and , a bicyclist, by crashing into him and then fleeing the scene.

Moreover, Izquieta plead guilty to vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated without gross negligence.

On December 9, 2009, Izquieta was driving her Saturn SUV in Newport Beach in the far right hand lane. Donald Murphy was cycling along the curbside of the road behind two of his friends. It was reported that Izquieta drifted towards the curb and hit Murphy from behind causing Murphy to be thrown from this bicycle to the curb rendering him unconscious.

Izquieta fled the scene and dragged Murphy's bicycle under her vehicle and was found by police about a mile down the road. Izquieta's vehicle sustained significant damage to the front hood and windshield of her car from the collision.

It was later determined that Izquieta had taken prescription medications / narcotics that early morning prior to the crash that impaired her driving including Methadone, Hydromorphone and Clonezepam.

According to top Orange County Drug Defense Lawyers, Michael Guisti
states that in California there are many different types of drug crime charges including possession of an uncontrolled substance, being under the influence of a controlled substance, possession of cocaine, and selling cocaine. Being under the influence of a controlled substance can be found in the California Health & Safety Code, section 11550(a).

Our Newport Beach criminal attorney and Santa Ana drug crime lawyers explain that it is illegal to be under the influence of a controlled substance. This includes drugs like Medthadone, Hydromorphone, Clonezepam, Opana, Oxycodone, Zolpidem, Hydrocodone, methamphetamines, cocaine and PCP, among others. If convicted of this charge you can face up to one year in jail, be ordered to go through a drug rehab program and pay fines. An Orange County drug crime lawyer familiar with drug crime charges can help those facing drug charges.

Penal Code 191.5(a) PC California's gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated law or otherwise known as "GVMI", is a felony punishable by up to ten years in the state prison (15 years-to-life if you have a prior DUI conviction).

Penal Code 191.5(a) states in pertinent part: "Gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated is the unlawful killing of a human being without malice aforethought, in the driving of a vehicle, where the driving was in violation of Section 23140, 23152, or 23153 of the Vehicle Code, and the killing was either the proximate result of the commission of an unlawful act, not amounting to a felony, and with gross negligence, or the proximate result of the commission of a lawful act that might produce death, in an unlawful manner, and with gross negligence.

(b) Vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated is the unlawful killing of a human being without malice aforethought, in the driving of a vehicle, where the driving was in violation of Section 23140, 23152, or 23153 of the Vehicle Code, and the killing was either the proximate result of the commission of an unlawful act, not amounting to a felony, but without gross negligence, or the proximate result of the commission of a lawful act that might produce death, in an unlawful manner, but without gross negligence."

How can you be successful in defending your vehicular manslaughter or drug crime case? Hire a strong and powerful Orange County criminal defense attorney or Westminster drug crimes defense lawyer.

At the Law Office of Michael Guisti, we have spent many years representing defendants that have been charged with a drug crime or possession of a controlled substance. In many cases wherein defendants have faced misdemeanor or felony charges, our experienced Orange County criminal defense attorney has been able to successfully reduce charges and sometimes obtain a dismissal. We help clients in Orange, Riverside, Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Bernardino Counties.

If you or a loved one is facing a felony or misdemeanor charge including assault, battery, domestic violence, robbery, grand theft, petty theft, sex crime, or if you need a Newport Beach white collar crime defense attorney to help you with you white collar crime charge call our office today. Our experienced Orange County Appellate lawyer has also been successful in representing clients with filing petition for writs, appeals and/or Habeas Corpus cases. Call our office toll free today at 1-888-478-8999 or visit our website at www.topcaliofornialawyer.com. You'll be glad you did!

Costa Mesa, Orange County - In a recent case review of an Orange County murder crime case, Michael Guisti, an Orange County criminal attorney and Santa Ana felony crime defense attorney, discussed the law and his opinions about this violent crime reported on the news in South Orange County.

Adam Randy Baker, 23, has been indicted on one California felony count of murder, one felony count of attempted murder and a sentencing enhancement for the personal use of a deadly weapon.

Baker is charged with a felony count of murder in the murder of Robert Sickles and a felony count of attempted murder of Sickles' friend, Brian McTeigue. According to Irvine Criminal defense lawyer at Law Offices of Michael Guisti, if Baker is convicted, he could be facing a maximum sentence of 23 years to life in state prison.

Also, the California Criminal Defense lawyer and Los Angeles Murder Defense attorney, Michael Guisti, states that defendant may face a minimum sentence of life without the possibility of parole.

The Huntington Beach criminal defense lawyer and the Westminster criminal attorney explained that under California law, murder is the unlawful killing of a human being with malice a forethought. 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.

California criminal defense attorney and Santa Ana criminal lawyer 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.


The Santa Ana attempted murder defense attorney and Fullerton criminal lawyer 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 with a track record 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 defendants in all types of other related criminal charges such as appeals, 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 defendants 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 in Orange County, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside or San Diego with murder as 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.

Rancho Santa Margarita, Orange County - Santa Ana felony crime Defense attorney Michael Guisti recently commented and discussed about a case on the crime news concerning a Newport Beach man was charged with Orange County murder charge but the case was later dismissed for self-defense.

Brain Scott Ostrom, 51 years, a pilot of Newport Beach, shot and killed a bail bondsman, Dean P. Maldonado, earlier this year over a love-triangle gone bad. After a 5-month investigation, the prosecutors decided that there was insufficient evidence that Ostrom was criminally liable in order to prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Therefore, Ostrom will not be charged in the case.

According to Irvine Criminal Defense lawyer and Santa Ana criminal attorney, Michael Guisti, one potential charge that could have been made would be Voluntary Manslaughter. California Penal Code 192 (a), Voluntary Manslaughter is a killing upon a sudden quarrel or heat of passion. Voluntary Manslaughter is seen as a lower case of murder because the defendant commits the crime out of an unexpected burst of anger instead of premeditation.

According to the California criminal attorney, who has many years of experience in manslaughter and other related felony charges such as voluntary manslaughter, vehicular manslaughter, involuntary manslaughter, homicide, murder, states that the key point here is the proof of "heat of passion" out of plaintiff's or the victim's provocation.

For example, finding your spouse or beau in bed with another, defendant is violently robbed by a perpetrator, murder of a family member are considered sufficient provocation. However, mere name calling, staring, mad dogging or looking by another are insufficient provocation and, thus the unusual killing followed will usually be considered murder.

The California felony crime defense lawyer further explains that Voluntary Manslaughter is a severe crime after murder. A defendant can face up to 11 years of imprisonment if convicted. If it is a third strike judging from the defendant's prior criminal history, the defendant may face 25 years to life imprisonment.

How can an experienced Orange County criminal defense attorney help you with your manslaughter defense, homicide defense or Murder defense in Orange County, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside throughout California?

At the Law Office of Michael Guisti our skilled Orange County criminal defense lawyers have been defending criminals that are facing Voluntary Manslaughter murder for countless years. We have been successful in helping clients in Orange County, Newport Beach, Irvine, Los Angeles County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County, and San Diego County. The organization and understanding that comes with early preparation by a knowledgeable defense attorney in Orange County can increase your chances of a favorable outcome, including the possibility of charges being dropped.

Consult with an experienced California criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Our California defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti are experts in handling voluntary manslaughter.

At Law Offices of Michael Guisti, our Irvine criminal defense lawyers are also highly experienced in trial and appeals in both state and federal court in Orange County, Newport
Beach, Fullerton, Huntington Beach, Tustin, Westminster, Irvine, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino and Riverside. Our California appeals attorneys and Orange County trial lawyers will utilize every possible method to achieve the best result possible. Call us today at 714-530-9690 for a free consultation with our skilled California criminal lawyers. You'll be glad you did.

Fullerton , Orange County - The Newport Beach criminal defense lawyer Michael Guisti recently read about a murder case on the news regarding a Fullerton man who was charged with murder for the crime happened 10 years ago. The Santa Ana felony crime defense attorney explained that if convicted with murder, the defendant could face a maximum sentence of 25 years to life in state prison.

A 31-year old Fullerton man, Christopher Michael McAmis, is being charged with murdering Lynsie Leigh Ekelund on February 17, 2001 according to the Los Angeles District Attorneys office.

A joint investigation involving the District Attorney's office task force and the Placentia Police department reopened its investigation in 2008 in an effort to focus on catching killers, rapists and sexual offenders. It is alleged that McAmis attempted to rape Ekelund in his Hollywood apartment. Prosecutors further allege that McAmis killed Lynsie Leigh Ekelund and disposed of her body after a night out at a San Diego club.

According to Orange County murder crime defense attorney and California criminal defense lawyer Michael Guisti that the defendant, McAmis, if convicted, may face a minimum sentence of life without the possibility of parole.

The Huntington Beach criminal defense lawyer and the Westminster criminal attorney explained that 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.

California criminal defense attorney and Fullerton criminal lawyer 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 appeals, 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 in Orange County, Los angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside or San Diego 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.

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.

Palm Desert, San Bernardino - Irvine violent crimes defense attorney Michael Guisti, recently commented on the charge of attempted murder.

September 1992, Jennifer Asbensen, then-19 years, was kidnapped, raped in Palm Springs and survived after escaping from the trunk of Andrew Urdiales car.

It started in September 1992 when Asbensen was waiting for a bus going to work. A Marine, Andrew Urdiales, pulled over and offered Asbensen a ride, she accepted. In the car, Urdiales asked for her number, refused many times but ultimately gave in.

Later that evening Urdiales discovered that she'd given him a wrong number and according to prosecutors was enough to spark the rage in which led Urdiales to kill four women prior to meeting Asbensen.

Urdiales confessed to kidnapping Asbensen and was convicted of attempted murder and killing three women in Illinois, where he is sentenced to die. Urdialis also admitted to killing five women in southern California.

The Newport Beach criminal defense attorney and Santa Ana criminal lawyer states that murder can be found in the California Penal code section 187 and defines murder as the unlawful killing of another.

The Santa Ana felony crime defense attorney goes on to state that Penal code section 664 states that is a person attempts to commit a crime; they shall serve half of the prison sentence of the fully committed crime. The punishments for murder are among of the most sever punishments given by the state of California. A person that is convicted of murder can face long prison sentences, fines, and even the death penalty.

Being convicted of murder is very serious. Since the punishments for murder is so serious it is important to retain an Orange County criminal defense attorney that has had experience representing clients in their murder and attempted murder cases.

Why is it so important to hire a successful Orange County criminal defense attorney or a skilled Irvine homicide defense attorney?

At the Law Offices of Michael Guisti we understand the severity of being convicted of murder or attempted murder. Our experienced Newport Beach criminal defense attorney has spent years representing clients not only in Orange County but in Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego, and San Bernardino County as well. It is important to hire a skilled lawyer that will lead you through the confusing Orange County criminal process.

If you or a loved one is facing a misdemeanor or a felony charge like murder, attempted murder, sex crimes charge, domestic violence charge, theft crimes, drug crimes, assault, battery or a white collar crime such as grand theft, embezzlement or identity theft retain an aggressive Santa Ana criminal defense attorney today. Call our office at (714) 530-9690 or visit our website at www.topcalifornialawyer.com. You'll be glad you did.

Hollywood, Los Angeles - Former Playboy Playmate, Victoria Rathgeb, was recently charged with attempted murder for allegedly shooting her husband, Bruce Rathgeb, in her Hollywood apartment earlier this month. At 66 years, Victoria pled not guilty to trying to kill a man.

According to Orange County criminal attorney Michael Guisti, who has successfully handled many high profile felony crime cases, murder crime defense and attempted murder cases, states that "attempted murder" can be found under the California Penal code 187 which defines murder as the unlawful killing of a human being.

The punishments for murder are the most severe among all other crimes, and it is the most aggressively prosecuted crime. The punishments for murder crimes, such as attempted murder, first degree murder, second degree murder, homicide and manslaughter, are very harsh, it could carry very long term prison sentences, the death penalty and heavy fines. The consequences could impact a person's entire life.

The California felony defense attorney also explains that a person committed a murder or any other crime as part of a gang could also face gang enhancements. An enhancement is defined under California Penal code 186.22. This law states that any person committed of a felony in California can have their sentenced enlarged if it was to benefit the gang. If you have committed a felony for a gang, you could face an additional 4 years of prison time.

Attorney Michael Guisti has extensive knowledge in California criminal law, federal law and experience with Orange County court systems, Los Angeles court, San Bernardino courts, Riverside courts, San Diego courts.

Our Los Angeles felony crime defense attorneys are experienced in felony criminal defens, such as: murder, attempted murder, three strikes, fraud, threat, kidnapping, grand theft, which collar crime, appeals, sex crimes, domestic violence, assault and battery, federal cases, felony drug cases, white collar crimes, felony fraud cases, grand theft cases, etc. Los Angeles criminal attorney and Orange County felony defense lawyers at Law Offices of Michael Guisti has also had experience defending clients that have been charged with gang related offenses.

How can an experienced Los Angeles criminal attorney help you in murder defense or attempted murder defense in Orange County, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino and San Diego?

Orange County criminal defense attorneys at Law Offices of Michael Guisti has successfully handled hundreds of clients in Southern California, Orange County, Santa Ana, Irvine, Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Garden Grove, Stanton, Orange, and Fullerton. Our Los Angeles criminal attorneys have defended hundreds of criminal defense felony cases in both state and federal courts in Los Angeles and Beverly Hills.

If you or someone you know need a criminal defense attorney in Orange County, contact our skilled Santa Ana criminal attorney and Los Angeles felony defense lawyer at Law Offices office of Michael Guisti at (714) 530-9690 for a free consultation or visit us at www.topcalifornialawyer.com. You'll be glad you did.

Long Beach, Los Angeles - This news report regarding vehicular manslaughter caught the attention of our Orange County DUI defense attorneys because this could have happened to any one of our children. In fact, this tragedy did happen to a parents' child, a 17-year old young man.

Earlier this month, a Los Angeles teenage male driving a Ford Taurus and an 18-year old man driving a Ford Mustang was caught speed racing in the streets of Long Beach just after midnight. Four people in the Ford Mustang were killed as a result of a crash. The driver of the Ford Taurus and his passenger fled the scene of the accident and were later caught by authorities. They were not hurt nor did they sustain any injuries. The driver of the Ford Mustang along with his three passengers did not fare well, however. All four, including the driver, were killed as a result of the contest.

The young teenage male will be brought up on 8 felony charges of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and involuntary manslaughter. According to the district attorney's office, they may seek to try the teenager as an adult. The car was stolen and the teenage driver was driving without a license.

A tragic moment in a young man's life may have cost him his for several reasons, but most importantly for killing several people in a costly accident which included robbery, theft, driving without a license, loss of life, driving while intoxicated, driving under the influence and fleeing the scene of an accident.

Under California Penal Code Section 191 and Penal Code Section 192, Gross Vehicular manslaughter is a serious crime causing the death of another person due to illegal driving, including negligence, drunk driving or reckless driving.

California Vehicular manslaughter can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances and seriousness of the crime. Gross negligence can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony; but if it is involved with the death of a person, it usually is charged as felony.

If you or your loved one has been charged or arrested for vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, involuntary manslaughter or related felony cases or misdemeanors in California, whether it is in Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside or San Bernardino, you need to seek the legal consultation from an experienced Orange County criminal defense attorney or Southern California vehicular manslaughter defense attorney to protect your rights and freedom. Orange County Criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti have handled hundreds of criminal cases in both state and federal court, including murder, among many other crimes.

How can an experienced Long Beach criminal defense lawyer and Orange County DUI defense attorney help you in your felony DUI defense and murder defense in Southern California ?

At Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti, our attorneys have won the respect from judges, prosecutors and law enforcement agents. We have the experience and resources to fight for your rights and freedom. Call our skilled Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney and Orange County DUI Defense attorney at Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti toll-free at 1-888-478-8999 or visit us at www.topcalifornialawyer.com. We represented clients in Newport Beach, Fullerton, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Westminster, Laguna Beach, Long Beach, Irvine, Garden Grove, Tustin, Los Angeles, Beverly Hills and cities throughout Southern California. Call us now, you'll be glad you did.