A custody battle over Michael Jackson's children could pit their grandmother against Debbie Rowe.
The pop star's mother, Katherine Jackson, was granted temporary custody of Prince Michael, 12, Paris Michael, 11, and Prince Michael II, 7, at least until a court hearing in early August.
But Debbie Rowe, the mother of the two elder children, yesterday indicated she would contest the ruling, a move that could see their fate eventually settled by the courts.
Rowe gave up custody to Jackson following their divorce in 1999. But there remains debate as to whether she legally signed away full parental rights in doing so.
However, a lawyer for Ms Rowe - commenting on a decision to delay a guardianship hearing – said his client had not yet decided whether to seek custody.
The Jackson family earlier said they have not heard from Ms Rowe since Michael's death was announced. They also asserted their authority over the three children, stating that their wellbeing was the family's main priority.
Katherine was also named as guardian in a 2002 will, believed to be the last written by Jackson.
