Jackson's doctor in bail bid

A lawyer for Michael Jackson’s doctor, Conrad Murray, is due in court today to argue for his release on bail pending his appeal over his involuntary manslaughter conviction.

Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor plans to hear the request in Murray’s absence.

The doctor remains jailed in solitary confinement after being sentenced to four years for his role in the superstar’s death.

Murray’s lawyer said his client should be released while his appeal winds its way through the courts.

But prosecutors have said that Murray was properly sentenced and would be a flight risk and a danger to the community if released.

Murray was convicted on November 7 of involuntary manslaughter after a trial focusing on use of the anaesthetic propofol.

Jackson died of an overdose of the drug while in Murray’s care.