Joe Jackson gains access to medical records

Judge Mitchell Beckloff on Friday allowed Joe Jackson, Michael’s father, to access his son’s case files and medical records. Issued at Joe’s request, this ruling allows him to obtain his son’s medical files from the hospital where he died. However, before handing these files over to Brian Oxman, Joe’s lawyer, the judge will review them. The judge will only provide the two with the records related to the day of Michael’s death—June 25 last year—and after that date. Last week, Brian Oxman said they need these records to prepare a petition regarding Michael’s death. Oxman is also seeking to receive a monthly allowance from Michael’s assets for Joe Jackson. Judge Beckloff has ordered the Michael Jackson Foundation, which is run by his attorneys, that the medical expert hired by Joe can review Michael’s records, but is not allowed to make copies of them. Anyone who views these documents must also sign a document requiring them to maintain confidentiality. Last week, Michael’s attorneys announced their opposition to Joe Jackson and his lawyer’s request to review these files, saying that before them, the judge must review the files. They also said these files should not be made available to them before the court’s ruling is issued regarding the allowance Joe requested. Howard Weitzman, attorney for the Michael Foundation, said yesterday after the court ruling that the decision includes the attorneys’ proposals. He also said that the officials of the Michael Jackson Foundation believe the court orders sufficiently protect Michael’s interests. Oxman also expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision. Source: eMJey / USA Today