Details are expected shortly in the custody case regarding Michael Jackson's children. L. Londell McMillan, the lawyer for the singer's mother, Katherine Jackson, said on Thursday morning (July 30) that he would have details later in the day about a custody agreement reached between Jackson and Debbie Rowe, the biological mother of Michael's two oldest children, Prince Michael, 12, and Paris Michael, 11.
McMillan would not comment on the terms of the reported deal in an interview with The Associated Press, but he told CBS' "The Early Show" that Katherine would get full custody of all three children under terms of an agreement that had just been reached.
"There is no situation better for these children than for them to be raised and reared in the loving care of Mrs. Katherine Jackson," McMillan said. He told the news program that the details of what, if any, role Rowe would play in the care of the children would be announced later in the day. Sources reportedly told "The Early Show" that Katherine will get full custody, and Rowe will have visitation rights but will not get any money in the deal.
Spokespeople for Rowe and McMillan could not be reached for comment at press time.
Following Jackson's death at age 50 on June 25, Katherine Jackson, 79, was named the children's temporary guardian. Rowe and the singer were married, but following their 2000 divorce, she gave up her parental rights and has reportedly not been involved in raising them since. Jackson's will called for his mother to take care of the children, and though Rowe was reportedly interested in taking a stronger hand in their care following his passing, McMillan denied reports that the former dermatology nurse was seeking a cash settlement to give up a custody fight.
Rowe received a financial settlement from Jackson when they divorced, agreeing at the time to give up parental rights. Those rights were reinstated in 2005 by a judge, and the former couple settled that custody dispute in 2006 under undisclosed terms, with Jackson retaining primary custody of the children.
"It's an agreement, an agreement for the best interests of the children. This is not a money deal. This is not about money," McMillan told CBS.
MTV News will have an update on this story as details become available.
Michael Jackson
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