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Paris Jackson’s nasty $600M battle over dad Michael Jackson’s fortune takes shocking new turn
A Los Angeles judge has allowed Michael Jackson estate executor John Branca to keep limited financial information confidential while litigation over his management of the estate continues. The decision concerns legal fees and estate accounting; it does not show that Paris Jackson opposed the requests or that the judge ruled directly against her.
The rulings, issued on 4 November, say disclosure could prejudice the estate’s interests in pending litigation, negotiations and business matters. Days earlier, Paris asked for about $600 million to be transferred to the family trust for her and her brothers, arguing it remains unfunded more than 17 years after their father’s death. The estate disputes her allegations, says more than $200 million has already gone to or been spent for beneficiaries, and cites unresolved matters including an IRS dispute. Paris’s petition is due to be heard on 3 December.
In short
- A judge allowed limited estate financial details to remain confidential.
- Paris Jackson is seeking about $600 million for the family trust.
- Her petition is scheduled for a hearing on 3 December.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The estate can argue that keeping some financial details confidential protects its position in active litigation, negotiations and business matters, which may ultimately affect beneficiaries’ interests. It also says substantial sums have already supported the beneficiaries and points to unresolved obligations, including an IRS dispute, that should be considered before transferring a further $600 million.
The case against
Paris Jackson can argue that the family trust was intended to benefit her and her brothers, yet remains unfunded more than 17 years after their father’s death, and that a transfer of about $600 million would fulfil that purpose. She can also contend that beneficiaries need enough financial disclosure to assess the estate’s accounting and the handling of its assets, especially while those matters remain under litigation.