Michael Jackson's Mother Stripped Of Temporary Executor Title, Estate Handed Over To Attorney And Music Exec

A Los Angeles probate judge ruled today that Michael Jackson's 2002 will is valid, and he stripped Katherine Jackson from the title of temporary executor and named attorney John Branca and music executive John McClain the co-executors of Jackson's estate.

Lawyers for Katherine wanted Judge Mitchell Beckloff to delay the decision, arguing that the move was happening too quickly, and they also suggested that because McClain suffered from a disability, he was unfit to make decisions on Michael's $500 million estate. However, the lawyer for the named co-executors claimed to have a letter from Jackson himself stating he wanted Branca to be in control of his affairs. The letter was dated June 17, 2009, and the judge seemed to have no qualms about removing Katherine from her position of power.

Katherine Jackson will remain in control of Michael's children, and her custody hearing versus Debbie Rowe has been moved to July 13.