Your digital subscription includes access to content from all our websites in your region. Access unlimited content, as well as The Canberra Times app.

Chris Dawson's dementia and health problems will be raised as matters for consideration during sentencing, his lawyer says.

On Tuesday, Dawson, 74, was found guilty of murdering his first wife Lynette, than aged 33, on or about January 8, 1982.

Justice Ian Harrison said he was "left in no doubt" that she died "as a result of conscious or voluntary act committed by Christopher Dawson".

Speaking to the media outside the court, Dawson's barrister Greg Walsh revealed his client has a range of health issues.

"He's been diagnosed with dementia," he said.

"His problems in relation to brain atrophy [are] a very important consideration, because jail will be much harder for him. He has real cognitive problems and also he's got problems with this hips and his knees."

An appeal is yet to be lodged, but Mr Walsh said one is probable.

"Mr Dawson has always asserted, and he still does, his absolute innocence of the crime of which he's been convicted. He will continue to assert that innocence and he'll certainly appeal," he said.

Immediately after the guilty verdict Dawson was handcuffed and taken into custody below the court.

Mr Walsh met with his client there and he said Dawson was in shock and asked his lawyer to call his wife.

"He's obviously in shock and he's upset. He wanted me to ring his wife Sue and talk to her," he said.

He's obviously in shock and he's upset. He wanted me to ring his wife Sue and talk to her.

Mr Walsh urged Dawson's daughters to stay strong.

"They were there and they were very supportive and they're obviously very upset, but they're a strong family," he said.

Dawson spent his first night in jail at Sydney's Surry Hills Police Station and will be transferred to Silverwater jail on Wednesday.

In NSW the maximum penalty for murder is life imprisonment.

There's a million tales to tell and I'm enjoying bringing them to you. News tips always welcome, get in touch on social or email me at: nadine.morton@austcommunitymedia.com.au.

There's a million tales to tell and I'm enjoying bringing them to you. News tips always welcome, get in touch on social or email me at: nadine.morton@austcommunitymedia.com.au.

Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date.

We care about the protection of your data. Read our Privacy Policy.