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Katherine Jackson has been given temporary custody of her son Michael Jackson’s three children. Her attorney filed a petition for appointment of guardianship through the Los Angeles Probate Court earlier today. CBS News reports that Katherine is also asking to become the administrator of Michael Jackson's estate.
The question of Katherine Jackson’s age needs to be considered: at 79 is she too old to take on three children? The kids: Prince (12), Paris (11) and Prince Michael II (7) are bound to be a lot (if not too much) for any 79 year old to handle.
At what point does age become an issue? Obviously, the best interest of the kids is the most important consideration. Jackson’s kids have no relationships with their biological Mothers and they do have a long established, loving relationship with their Grandmother. But, is it fair to the children to hand guardianship over to someone that can’t possibly keep up with three active children, stay on top of their schedules and help them with their studies?
While it can be argued that she could hire Nannies and tutors, shouldn’t the fact that there is a very good chance that Katherine won’t live long enough to see the kids reach adulthood be considered? With the youngest child being just 7, his Grandmother will be 90 years old when he turns 18!
While I would never discount the importance of a Grandparents role in a child life, there are other options regarding Jackson’s children. Katherine Jackson can turn to the courts to grant her liberal visitation rights regardless of who is given final custody. Another option would be to have custody go to one of Michael’s multiple siblings where the grandparents could stay actively involved in the kids’ lives.
Katherine Jackson’s hearing has been scheduled for August. 3.
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