Murray Lawsuit Case Moves to State Court

Joe Jackson’s lawsuit against Dr. Conrad Murray—the doctor accused of Michael Jackson’s involuntary manslaughter—now lies in the hands of a state judge. A former federal judge said the court does not have legal authority to hear the case.

The judge said that if the case stays in his court, it is unlikely that Joe Jackson will be awarded damages for the killing of his son. Joe Jackson is seeking compensation from Murray for the killing of his son. The judge previously said he doubted the case belonged in federal court, but he waited until the first hearing, which was on Monday, to decide.

Judge John F. Walter told Joe Jackson’s lawyer yesterday that Mr. Jackson cannot claim damages in this court. Brian Oxman, Joe Jackson’s attorney, said he will refer the case to the California Supreme Court soon. Perhaps the new case will also include Michael’s mother’s lawsuit against concert promoter AEG, accusing them of negligence in caring for her son.

State judge Charles H. Puckham told the federal judge that even if the case is heard in state court, the obstacles for Joe Jackson will be significant. Because Conrad Murray will challenge Joe Jackson’s standing to bring the lawsuit.

Source: eMJey / AP