Michael’s Murder Case Delayed Until Next January

Yesterday, the judge in Michael’s involuntary manslaughter case scheduled a preliminary hearing for January 4, 2011. On that day, for the first time, the details of this case will be officially made known to the public. It was expected that this hearing would take place in 2010, but the judge postponed it due to certain issues, including witnesses and inspections.

The preliminary hearing will likely take 2 to 3 weeks, during which both sides—the prosecution and the defense attorney—must present their evidence. Then the judge will decide whether these documents are sufficient to hold a formal trial.

On Monday, when the judge was making a decision in this case, Michael’s fans outside the courthouse chanted "Justice for Michael" and wanted Murray’s crime to be upgraded to "second-degree murder." On that day, Katherine and Joe, Michael’s parents, were present in court.

Source: eMJey / abcnews.go.com