Jackson estate fight 'for fathers'

Joe and Katherine Jackson.

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JOE Jackson is fighting an "important issue for all fathers" with his action against his late son's estate.

The pop patriarch is fighting a court decision that Michael Jackson's attorney John Branca and music executive and family friend John McClain should preside over the late 'Thriller' hitmaker's affairs, as designated in the star's will.

Speaking after a hearing date for October 6 was set, lawyers for Joe - who was omitted from Michael's will - insisted there is a wider issue at stake.

His attorney Brian Oxman said: "I think it's an important issue for all fathers around the country and around the world that when their child dies they should have a say-so in their child's estate."

Lawyers for the estate said administrators are meeting all obligations to named beneficiaries featured in the will.

Attorney Howard Weitzman said: "As I've said before, Mr. Jackson's appeal is not well taken."

As well as taking action against the Michael Jackson estate, Joe is also pursuing a wrongful death suit against Conrad Murray, the doctor accused of administering the lethal dose of anaesthetic Propofol which killed the 50-yuear-old singer in June 2009.

Joe's lawyers argue the singer's estate should cover the cost of the wrongful death suit - despite not being a party to the legal action.

Dr. Murray has previously pleaded not guilty to the involuntary manslaughter of the singer. A preliminary hearing into his case is scheduled for January 4.