The doctor charged in Michael Jackson's death faces a procedural hearing Monday, but it has prompted authorities to brace for a crowd of fans and media as well as more than a dozen members of the deceased superstar's family. Dr. Conrad Murray has pleaded not guilty to involuntary manslaughter, and the hearing in Los Angeles Superior Court is aimed at assigning a judge to try the case and setting a preliminary hearing date. Normally, such a procedural hearing would draw few spectators. But with Jackson's death as the backdrop, crowds of fans and media are expected. And Jackson family members, including his parents and siblings, are committed to attending all court proceedings against Murray. Some of them have suggested the charge of involuntary manslaughter is not severe enough. If convicted, Murray would face a maximum sentence of four years in prison. Sandi Gibbons, spokeswoman for the district attorney's office, said the Jackson family notified court officials of their plans because seats need to be reserved for them in the courtroom. “There will be more than a dozen, possibly as many as 15,” she said. Allan Parachini, spokesman for the Los Angeles courts, said a large contingent of international media also is expected.
