Michael Jackson's Children still in play?

Well, back to the guardianship issue, it seems.

FIRST, it is reported that Debbie Rowe has not decided whether she will or will not challenge custody of Prince Michael and Paris, her 2 children with Michael Jackson. However the permenant guardianship hearing has been delayed a week until July 14th. This may give the parties time to reach an agreement if in fact there is a dispute.

SECOND, though the will names Katherine Jackson as guardian, Debbie Rowe's parental rights were not severed by the courts. Unless a parent is determined to be "unfit" custody by the biological parent is favored by the courts under normal circumstances. This is anything but normal circumstances.

THIRD, the courts also favor keeping siblings/families together. Debbie Rowe would have no legal rights to Prince Michael II. As reported, Princed Michael II's mother was a surrogate.

FOURTH, though the law is well settled on the rigthts of biological parents and adoptive parents, the rights of surrogates or sperm donors are less clear. Many issues in this area have not been explored by the courts. Will this case serve as that opportunity to explore issues in this area? Only time will tell and I will be providing my estate planning insights.

What more could Michael Jackson have done to secure the future of his children upon his death? This and other questions will be explored in the days to come. We want to hear from you. Leave your comments here or contact us at www.ythlaw.com