Conrad Murray says he can't afford legal help, asks for publicly defender lawyer to handle appeal

(CBS/AP) LOS ANGELES - Michael Jackson's doctor Conrad Murray appears to be too poor to fund his appeal.

Dr. Murray asked for a publicly-funded lawyer to handle his appeal on a manslaughter conviction in Jackson's death, saying he could not afford to pay for one himself. 

Pictures: Michael Jackson's Doctor TrialPictures: Who's who in the trial of Dr. Conrad Murray

Murray is serving a four-year jail term for the involuntary manslaughter of Michael Jackson in 2009. He recently filed papers with the Los Angeles Superior Court, saying he was now unable to afford his legal help.

Murray, a 58-year old cardiologist, had hired two lawyers for his trial that lasted six weeks.

Jackson, 50, died in June 2009 of an overdose of propofol and sedatives.

The civil attorney representing Murray in a wrongful death suit filed by Jackson's father says his client is coping with tight jail security and his isolation, and remains optimistic he will win the upcoming criminal appeal.

Complete coverage of the Conrad Murray - Michael Jackson case on Crimesider