The pre-trial conference for Abington resident Michael McGunigle got a late start Wednesday after his attorney, Wayne Murphy, was delayed. According to Bridget Middleton, spokesperson for Plymouth County DA Tim Cruz, the discovery portion of the trial will continue on Oct. 12.

The pre-trial conference for Abington resident Michael McGunigle got a late start Wednesday after his attorney, Wayne Murphy, was delayed.

Murphy had still not shown up for the conference by 2 p.m.

According to Bridget Middleton, spokesperson for Plymouth County DA Tim Cruz, the discovery portion of the trial will continue on Oct. 12.

McGunigle, 49, is facing manslaughter charges in the death of Abington resident Brian Cherry.

McGunigle was arrested shortly after allegedly punching Brian Cherry, 48, over what witnesses said was a dispute about a dog. Cherry went into a coma after the fight and died days later from head injuries on July 12 at Mass General Hospital.

Prosecuters maintain Cheerry died from injuries sustained while hitting his head against the pavement that day, a result of getting punched by McGunigle.

McGunigle was originally arraigned on the manslaughter charge in Brockton District Court, but those charges were dismissed.

He was later indicted at the superior court level and transferred to Plymouth Superior Court in Brockton.

Cherry’s family was present in the audience at court on Wednesday, with the exception of Brian’s wife, Donna.

McGunigle’s family was also in attendance.

Attorney Russ Eonas is representing the Commonwealth in the trial and Judge Joseph Walker is presiding.