FILE - In this May 20, 2005 file photo,
Michael Jackson, background, and his
mother Katherine Jackson pass through
a security check point on the way to his
child molestation trial at the Santa Barbara
County Courthouse in Santa Maria, Calif.
LOS ANGELES — Michael Jackson's mother asked a Superior Court judge on Monday to name her administrator of her late son's estate so she can ensure the King of Pop's three children are its beneficiaries.
The court filing states that Jackson's parents believe he died without a valid will.
Supporting Katherine Jackson in her petition bid to administer the estate was Jackson's father, Joe Jackson.
The court documents state that Katherine Jackson "intends to marshal assets of the decedent for the exclusive use of the decedent's three children _ her grandchildren _ after payment of debts and expenses of administration."
Earlier, Superior Court Judge Mitchell Beckloff granted Katherine Jackson's request to assume temporary guardianship of her son's children but did not immediately rule on her request to administer their estate.
Beckloff scheduled hearings for July 6 and Aug. 3 to take up the matters, including whether to also approve a request by Jackson to become permanent guardian of her son's children.
So far, a will for Michael Jackson, which might spell out his wishes for care of his children and his estate, has not surfaced.
Jackson never told his family who he had in place to handle his business affairs, a person close to the family has told The Associated Press. The person, who requested anonymity because of the delicate nature of the situation, said they were told by the singer's phalanx of advisers that he likely had a will, but it may be many years old.
