Popsquire

Where there’s a will, there a way to financial and baby mama drama.

[Bauer Griffin Online]

That’s the takeaway from this morning’s Michael Jackson probate hearing, which Popsquire attended.  See below for a summary:

Movie Deal

The court confirmed Friday’s approval of a deal with Columbia Pictures to turn footage from rehearsals of MJ’s tour into a feature film.

Merchandising Deals

The parties wrangled over terms contained in agreements between AEG and Bravado regarding MJ merchandise.  Although the attorneys did not spell out Katherine Jackson’s issues with the agreements, AEG’s attorney referred to Katherine’s objections as “unreasonable” and stated that “under no circumstances” would AEG agree to them.

The AEG Agreement

Confidentiality of MJ’s agreement with AEG became a major focus of attention at today’s hearing.  Katherine wants two exceptions to the confidentiality provisions: (a) to be able to share the agreement with law enforcement officials; and (b) to use it in “other legal proceedings.”

The judge resolved both issues as follows:

(a) If law enforcement officials want to see the AEG agreement and Katherine’s attorneys believe it would undermine any investigation to alert AEG, then Katherine’s attorneys will need to get the court’s permission to share the information.

(b) The judge ordered the parties to insert language into the confidentiality provisions that gives Katherine the right to seek court permission to share the contract in any other legal proceeding — as of this morning, the contract stated that the agreement “shall not” be used in any other proceeding.

So, what’s the “other proceeding?”  Perhaps a wrongful death lawsuit?

The Kids’ Interests

Given that the kids stand to inherit substantial sums of money under the various agreements and the existence of ongoing dispute over the agreements, the judge raised the issue of appointing a guardian ad litem to look out for the kids’ financial interests.

Attorneys for AEG urged the court not to delay making decisions on the agreements, because it would result in “significant revenue loss.”  The judge is expected to make a decision about requiring the appointment of a guardian ad litem during the afternoon court session.

Baby Mama Drama

And, then there was “Billie Jean Jackson.”  At approximately 11:30 am. she interrupted the court proceedings, saying: “I’m Blanket’s mother.  I’m here and interested.”  She also asked the court to suspend all further proceedings until forensic testing  takes place; she believes the signatures on the will are forged.

The judge nicely explained that she has the right to file a petition with the court, which she must do within 120 days from when the will was entered into probate.

Also in court was Claire Elisabeth Fields Cruise, who has filed three guardianship petitions claiming she is “the biological mother of Prince Michael Jackson II and all of his siblings.”  She remained quiet in court.

The end…for now.

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