Michael Jackson's former doctor has appeared at a court in Los Angeles to deny a charge of involuntary manslaughter related to the singer's death.

Dr Conrad Murray has posted bail of $75,000 over the death, to which he has pleaded not guilty to unlawfully, and without malice, killing Michael Joseph Jackson; in other words, involuntary manslaughter.

A conviction over the charge could send Dr Murray to jail for four years.

When Jackson died at his home last June at the age of 50, his death was ruled as homicide after he was found to have consumed a cocktail of sedative and painkiller drugs.

A coroner confirmed he had died from the effects of the anaesthetic drug Propofol.

Members of the Jackson family, including father Joe, mother Katherine, brothers Jermaine, Tito, Jackie and Randy and sister LaToya were at the court for Dr Murray's hearing, with Jermaine Jackson later saying he did not believe the manslaughter charge was sufficient.

A number of the singer's fans also chanted "justice for Michael" as Dr Murray arrived at court.

The next hearing has been set for 5th April.

Dr Murray had been hired to be Jackson's personal physician as the singer prepared for his comeback concerts.

After Jackson's death he told police he had been giving Jackson Propofol as part of his treatment for insomnia.