A trial for the doctor accused in pop singer Michael Jackson's death could begin within 60 days after his attorneys told the judge in the case they would be ready to go within the statutory time limit for a speedy trial. Dr. Conrad Murray entered a guilty plea during a court appearance before Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor.
"Your honor, I am an innocent man," Murray said. "I definitely plead not guilty."
Judge Pastor said the trial date for March 28 and said he would be inclined to allow the proceedings to be televised, but agreed to hear from the attorneys on the matter at a pre-trial hearing set for Feb. 7.
Attorneys for Murray previously said he would not be accepting a plea bargain in the case, in which he is accused of causing Jackson's death by giving him the anesthetic propofol along with other sedatives. Prosecutors have not indicated if a plea bargain has been offered in the case.
'We're Going to Trial'
If convicted of involuntary manslaughter, Murray would face a maximum of four years in prison.
Although prosecutor's presented strong evidence at an earlier preliminary hearing showing Murray's negligence, his attorneys believe he will be found not guilty at trial.
"We're going to go to trial," defense attorney J. Michael Flanagan told reporters. "I think our case is really solid. We were very pleased with the way the evidence went at the preliminary hearing... This should result in an acquittal."
source: About.com
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