An upcoming December 4, 2026, court hearing could determine whether Paris Jackson receives a preliminary $600 million transfer from her late father Michael Jackson’s estate.
The 28-year-old singer has petitioned a Los Angeles probate court to transfer the money into the Michael Jackson Family Trust. The trust benefits Paris and her brothers, Prince, 29, and Bigi, 24.
Her petition, filed on October 29, 2026, challenges the prolonged delay in funding the family trust more than 17 years after their father’s death.
Paris Questions Why Family Trust Remains Unfunded
According to Paris’s legal team, Michael’s will outlined specific arrangements for distributing his fortune to his children. The beneficiaries were supposed to start receiving trust income at age 21. They would then receive portions of the principal at ages 30, 35 and 40.
However, Paris argues that the estate has failed to adequately fund the trust. She has also questioned the management of the estate, particularly the role of executor John Branca.
Her petition reportedly alleges that Branca has maintained excessive control over discretionary payments while delaying the transfer of funds.
Paris Points to $850 Million Estate Reserves
In her court filing, Paris reportedly cited financial records showing approximately $850 million in cash and cash equivalents.
She argues that transferring $600 million would still leave sufficient funds to meet the estate’s outstanding financial obligations.
However, estate representatives strongly dispute her position. They maintain that more than $200 million has already been distributed or spent on behalf of the beneficiaries.
The estate also cites unresolved tax litigation with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The dispute reportedly involves approximately $700 million in taxes and penalties. According to the estate, these outstanding obligations prevent the immediate funding of the family trust.
John Branca Faces Questions Over Estate Management
Branca remains the sole executor following the reported death of co-executor John McClain in May 2026. He also serves as a trustee of the family trust.
The dispute has raised further questions about estate management, financial transparency and the beneficiaries’ access to their inheritance.
Meanwhile, a Los Angeles judge reportedly approved Branca’s request to seal portions of certain filings concerning legal fees and estate accounting.
December 4 Hearing Could Determine Next Steps
The court will consider Paris’s request for a preliminary distribution during the incoming December 4 hearing. The proceedings could clarify whether part of the requested $600 million can be transferred before the wider tax dispute is resolved.
For now, Paris’s request remains contested, and no court-approved payout has been confirmed. The legal battle highlights the continuing disagreement over how Michael Jackson’s multibillion-dollar estate should be managed and distributed among his children.
