The charge against Michael Jackson that he gave an intoxicant to a child has been reduced from "serious crime" to "misdemeanour", improving the prosecution's chances.

Judge Rodney Melville Tuesday lessened the charge against the "Bad" star because he was not convinced Jackson gave his accuser Gavin Arvizo alcohol with the intent to sexually abuse him, reports internet portal Femalefirst.

The 46-year-old superstar's other felony charges remain unchanged - they include 10 felony charges of child molestation, conspiring to commit child abduction, extortion and false imprisonment.

Melville's decision means Jackson no longer faces two to four years in prison if convicted of the alcohol charge because the misdemeanour carries a fine and a shorter county jail sentence.