Court to hear George Michael charges

Michael has admitted he was "stupid and reckless"

A Californian court is due to hear the charges of "lewd conduct" brought against the pop star George Michael after his arrest at a public toilet in Beverly Hills.

However, Michael's lawyer Ira Reiner said the singer-songwriter would not be appearing in person at the hearing in Beverly Hills Municipal Court later on Tuesday.

Mr Reiner said he planned to ask the court to adjourn the case for a week to allow him more time to examine the documents in the case.

"Nothing will happen, George Michael will not be making an appearance and no plea will be entered," he added.

Michael is charged with lewd conduct in a public place under section 647(F) of the Californian Penal Code.

He was arrested by police as he left a toilet in the Will Rogers Park, Beverly Hills, last month.

The former Wham! star allegedly committed the offence in front of an undercover police officer.

If Michael does eventually plead not guilty the evidence will go before an interim hearing where a judge will decide whether there is a case to answer before a full trial is held.