Michael Jackson's father launches court bid for money

Joe Jackson has requested an allowance from the estate of his late son Michael Jackson.

The 81 year-old has filed papers in LA claiming that the late Prince of Pop supported him for years before his death. Jackson Snr said he needs $20,000 a month to get by but at present receives just $1,700 in state benefits. He said his outgoings include rent for his Las Vegas home, meals out, air travel and hotel accommodation.

Joe Jackson's lawyers added that the pop star's estate has earned an estimated $100m (£60.1m) since his sudden death on June 25.

Michael Jackson's will, famously, omitted his father, but made provision for his mother and children. Monthly payments to them were approved last month.

A hearing to assess Joe Jackson's request is expected to take place early next year.

Howard Weitzman, a lawyer for the administrators of the pop star's estate, said it was "quite surprising to learn of the request".