A Los Angeles County Superior Court judge agreed Monday to push back the involuntary manslaughter trial of Michael Jackson's doctor until September.

Judge Michael Pastor made the ruling at the request of defense attorneys representing Dr. Conrad Murray. The attorneys said they could not be ready for trial, which was set to begin with opening statements next week, because of the last-minute presentation by the prosecution of expert testimony debunking the defense theory that Jackson died by his own hand.

The 171 potential jurors who had filled out lengthy questionnaires about the case in March will be excused, and a new panel will be selected beginning Sept. 8, the judge said.

Pastor said the delay was necessary for "fundamental fairness."

Murray is accused of negligence in administering the hospital anesthetic propofol to Jackson.

LOS ANGELES TIMES

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