Defense Team Replaces Propofol Expert in Michael Jackson Overdose Case

The defense team for Michael Jackson's physician Conrad Murray, MD, has replaced its most knowledgeable lawyer on propofol for today's testimony, according to a CNN report.

Michael Flanagan, who handled the previous medical experts in the trial, has been replaced by lead defense lawyer Ed Chernoff for the questioning of Steven Shafer, MD, according to the report. The defense did not cite a reason for the replacement.

According to the report, Dr. Murray appeared "visibly shaken" by Dr. Shafer's Thursday testimony, in which he said he believes Dr. Murray set up an IV drip to administer propofol to the late singer. Dr. Shafer testified on Wednesday that Mr. Jackson would still be alive but for 17 "egregious deviations" by Dr. Murray from the standard of care required from physicians.

After the defense cross-examination of Dr. Shafer this afternoon, Dr. Murray's lawyers will call their own witnesses, including their own anesthesiology expert.

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