Paris Jackson’s ongoing legal battle against the executors of her late father, Michael Jackson’s estate, faced a setback on November 10, 2023. A ruling by Los Angeles Referee Mitchell L. Beckloff dismissed key elements of her petition, favoring the estate’s executors, John Branca and John McClain. The judge determined that many of Jackson’s claims were challenges to the estate’s own court filings, which are protected under California’s anti-SLAPP statute. This legal principle prevents retaliatory lawsuits against individuals for exercising their free speech rights.
The court’s decision removed several of Paris’s major allegations, including complaints about filing practices and questionable payments. Additionally, the ruling grants the executors the right to seek reimbursement for attorneys’ fees, potentially imposing some financial burden on Paris.
In her petition, the 27-year-old model raised serious concerns about the management of her father’s estate. She accused the executors of misallocating funds, particularly regarding substantial payments to their legal team without appropriate oversight. Paris specifically pointed to non-contractual gifts amounting to £95,053 (approximately $125,000) and £190,106 (around $250,000) made to certain attorney firms.
Another critical issue raised by Paris involved the delayed filing of payment petitions. She called for the court to review a 2010 regulation allowing the estate’s executors to pay their attorneys without prior court approval. Her request sought formal reporting and approval of attorney fees and expenses covering the years 2019 through 2023, arguing that such delays hinder accountability and financial oversight for her and her brothers, Prince and Bigi.
Despite the court’s ruling, Paris remains committed to her cause. A spokesperson for her team stated that the decision addresses “minor procedural issues” and does not alter the fundamental concerns she has raised regarding the executors’ conduct. “This order is limited to minor procedural issues and does not change the facts: the pattern of behavior displayed by the executors and their attorneys raises significant red flags, and Paris will continue working to ensure her family is treated fairly,” the spokesperson told PEOPLE.
Paris’s legal team plans to submit a revised petition soon, aiming to present a more robust and targeted argument that addresses the issues they believe have not been resolved. For Paris, this legal dispute transcends mere financial considerations; it is about ensuring justice, maintaining accountability, and protecting her family’s rights as beneficiaries of Michael Jackson’s estate.
She has emphasized the importance of responsible estate management and preserving her father’s legacy with integrity, reflecting what she believes he would have wanted. As the battle continues, the outcome will not only impact Paris and her family but also the future of Michael Jackson’s estate.
