Michael Jackson's mother temporary guardian of his three children

Michael Jackson's mother has become the temporary guardian of his three
children.
Katherine Jackson was granted the order - which sees her caring for Prince
Michael, 12, Paris, 11, and seven-year-old Prince Michael II - by the Los
Angeles Superior Court yesterday (29.06.09) but she was denied temporary
guardianship of the kids' estate.
Speaking outside his home in Encino, California, Michael's father Joe
Jackson said: "We're the parents. This is where they belong. We're going to
take care of them and give them the education they're supposed to have."
In a petition lodged by Katherine, it is claimed Prince Michael and Paris
have "no relationship with their biological mother", Debbie Rowe.
Joe confirmed: "Debbie Rowe has nothing to do with what we're doing."
Appearing to confirm rumours Michael had kept his children segregated from
other youngsters, Joe added: "We have kids back there, small ones like they
are. They were never around other kids. They're happy."
However, it has been claimed Michael was keen for his sister Janet Jackson
to look after his children if he passed away.
Although the 50-year-old King of Pop - who claimed his father physically
abused him when he was young - was said to have forgiven Joe for the
treatment he received as a child, he thought his kids would be better cared
for by his 43-year-old sister.
A source said: "Everyone is expecting Katherine and Joe to raise the
children. But it is understood Michael's will could prevent this from
happening.
"He was determined his kids would be brought up in much better circumstances
than the strict rule he had to endure. Janet is the one who Michael would
want them to be with."
It has also been claimed Debbie has tried to contact Michael's family since
his death.
Marc Schaffel - who worked with Michael and is friends with Debbie - said:
"We've been trying to reach them at different numbers, but we don't know if
who we've been leaving messages with have gotten the messages.
"In all fairness I wouldn't say they are avoiding her. Our understanding,
though, is that the Jackson family does want to have contact with Debbie."
A hearing will take place on August 3 to determined whether Katherine will
become the children's permanent guardian.
Katherine is also keen to become the guardian of the estate of Michael - who
died following a suspected cardiac arrest last Thursday (25.06.09) - to make
sure his kids are the beneficiaries. Michael's father Joe has supported the
petition.
Katherine's lawyer Burt Levitch claims Michael had many bank accounts which
are being controlled by third parties.
There is also concern over the late singer's stake in the Sony-ATV Music
Publishing Catalogue - which includes the Beatles' back catalogue - as
Levitch claims no-one is now looking after it.
Levitch is worried someone claiming to have Michael's power of attorney
could try to do something with his assets.
According to gossip website TMZ, a court has made Katherine administrator of
her son's estate pending a hearing next Monday (06.07.09).
In the petition filed by Michael's parents to probate his estate, they claim
he died "intestate" - without making a will.
However, it has been alleged Michael made a will before his death which is
currently with lawyer John Branca.
Branca - who stopped working with Michael in 2006 but was rehired three
weeks ago - claims the document is the most recent of Jackson's will and
says he will file it in 30 days.