Two former associates have filed a lawsuit against Michael Jackson’s estate, alleging child sex trafficking and abuse. Here’s what we know so far.

28-Feb-2026: Two former associates of Michael Jackson have filed a lawsuit against the late singer’s estate, alleging child sex trafficking and abuse during the time they were minors.

The civil complaint targets the Estate of Michael Jackson, claiming that the organization overseeing his legacy failed to prevent and allegedly facilitated abuse. The estate has consistently denied wrongdoing in past legal matters and continues to dispute such allegations.

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What the Lawsuit Alleges

According to court filings, the plaintiffs allege they were befriended by Jackson as children and later subjected to abuse. The lawsuit argues that individuals and entities tied to the singer’s operations enabled access and protected him from scrutiny.

The claims include allegations of grooming and manipulation, as well as accusations that business structures connected to Jackson contributed to a system that allowed misconduct to occur.

It is important to note that these are allegations presented in a civil lawsuit and have not been proven in court.

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The Estate’s Position

Representatives for the Estate of Michael Jackson have historically denied accusations of abuse, maintaining that previous investigations and legal proceedings cleared the pop star of criminal wrongdoing during his lifetime.

Jackson was acquitted in a high-profile 2005 criminal trial involving child molestation charges. However, civil claims have continued to surface in the years following his death in 2009.

The estate has often argued that renewed lawsuits are attempts to pursue financial damages rather than uncover new evidence.

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Legal Context

Because Jackson passed away in 2009, lawsuits are filed against his estate rather than the artist directly. Estates can be held civilly liable in certain cases depending on jurisdiction and the claims involved.

Some recent lawsuits involving public figures have been made possible by expanded statutes of limitation in certain states, allowing individuals to bring forward claims years after alleged incidents occurred.

The court process will determine whether the case proceeds to trial or is dismissed.

Ongoing Public Debate

Allegations against Jackson have been a subject of public debate for decades, resurfacing periodically through legal action and media projects.

Supporters continue to defend his legacy as one of the most influential entertainers in music history, while critics argue that civil litigation deserves careful consideration.

The new lawsuit is likely to reignite discussions about accountability, legacy, and the responsibility of estates managing the reputations of deceased public figures.

What Happens Next?

At this stage, the lawsuit has been filed but not adjudicated. The estate is expected to respond formally in court filings.

Legal experts note that such cases often involve complex evidentiary questions, particularly when the accused individual is no longer alive to testify.

As proceedings unfold, further updates will clarify whether the case advances toward trial or is resolved through other legal means.

FAQs

Who is suing Michael Jackson’s estate?

Two former associates who allege they were abused as minors have filed a civil lawsuit.

What are they alleging?

The lawsuit claims child sex trafficking and abuse, along with allegations that entities tied to Jackson enabled misconduct.

Was Michael Jackson ever convicted of abuse?

No. He was acquitted of criminal charges in a 2005 trial.

Why is the estate being sued instead of Michael Jackson?

Because Jackson died in 2009, legal claims must be filed against his estate.

Has the estate responded?

The estate has historically denied similar allegations and is expected to formally respond in court.