FILE - In this Friday, Oct. 21, 2011, file photo, Michael Jackson's doctor former Dr. Conrad Murray sits in a courtroom during his involuntary manslaughter trial in Los Angeles. Jurors in a negligence lawsuit filed by Michael Jackson’s mother, Katherine Jackson, against concert giant AEG Live LLC heard legal instructions Monday, Sept. 23, 2013, on the eve of final arguments in the 21-week civil trial in Los Angeles. The instructions lasted about 30 minutes, a relatively short time because there is only one central issue in the case: Who hired Dr. Conrad Murray? Was it AEG Live or the superstar singer? (AP Photo/Reed Saxon, Pool, File)
September 23, 2013 - 12:34 PM
LOS ANGELES, Calif. - Jurors in the negligence lawsuit by Michael Jackson's mother against concert giant AEG Live LLC have heard legal instructions from a judge on the eve of final arguments in the 21-week trial.
Jury members listened Monday to a half hour of instructions on how to evaluate evidence and witnesses. The judge told them that everyone has biases but they must not be swayed by prejudice, sympathy or public opinion. Nor can they consider the wealth of the parties.
Their big decision will be whether the concert promoter was negligent in hiring and supervising Dr. Conrad Murray. AEG claims it did not hire Murray, who was chosen by the singer. Katherine Jackson's lawyers say AEG drafted Murray's contract.
A unanimous verdict is not required; Only nine jurors must agree.
News from © The Associated Press, 2013