Michael Jackson's doctor to continue in practice

Published on Tuesday 15 June 2010 00:33

THE doctor facing charges over of the death of musician Michael Jackson will continue to practise.

US Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor declined a request by California authorities to suspend the ability of Conrad Murray to practice medicine in the state.

Judge Pastor said there were no circumstances that warranted altering Murray's $75,000 bail conditions.

California authorities have sought the suspension since Murray was charged with involuntary manslaughter in February.

He is accused of giving the pop star a lethal dose of the sedative propofol last June. He has pleaded not guilty.

The judge said he may revisit the issue of Murray's medical licence, but only if there was new information or possibly after a preliminary hearing.

Several members of Jackson's family, including his father Joe, mother Katherine, sister LaToya and brother Jermaine, attended the hearing.

Murray's attorneys fought the restriction, arguing that it would prompt authorities in Texas and Nevada to take similar action. Murray operates clinics in both states, and both have ordered him not to use sedatives on his patients.

Murray's attorney, Ed Chernoff, said in documents filed on Friday that Nevada and Texas have reached agreements to allow Murray to practise as long as he abides by a judge's order not to administer sedatives such as propofol.