Delay as new experts are called for Michael Jackson trial

Published on Monday 2 May 2011 18:07

THE TRIAL of the doctor charged over the death of singer Michael Jackson has been delayed until September.

Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor yesterday put off opening statements that had been set for next week and says he will release potential jurors who have started the screening process.

Pastor now says jury selection will begin on 8 September and opening statements will begin later that month.

Lawyers for Dr Conrad Murray asked to delay the trial to prepare for new prosecution experts expected to be called as witnesses.

Murray had been seeking a speedy trial but has waived that right to allow his lawyers to prepare for the experts.

Pastor says the need for fundamental fairness requires a delay.

Born in Gary, Indiana, on 29 August, 1958, Jackson entertained audiences almost all his life. His death in June 2009 triggered a global outpouring of grief, and as many as one billion people around the world reportedly watched his public memorial service on live television.

In March 2010, Sony Music Entertainment signed a $250 million deal with Jackson's estate to retain distribution rights to his recordings until 2017, and to release seven posthumous albums.