Opinion ID: 77431
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Facts for the Ineffective Assistance Claim

Text: 14 During the guilt phase of the trial, Hallford testified that he disapproved of certain of his children's acts such as smoking dope and that he was a strict disciplinarian. Because Hallford denied committing the murder, he offered this good father explanation to suggest a motive for his children's testimony against him. But this good father testimony made it possible for the State to present, during the penalty phase, Melinda's testimony about her incestuous relationship with Hallford. 15 At the penalty phase, Hallford presented only his mother's testimony in which she pleaded for Hallford's life. Hallford's trial counsel — who had previously represented Hallford on unrelated matters — considered but decided not to present psychological or personal background testimony.