Update on the trial readiness hearing

In the ongoing legal proceedings involving Michael Jackson’s estate and allegations from James Safechuck and Wade Robson, there is an ongoing debate about the trial timeline. Attorneys for the Estate have requested to push the trial date further back, a motion that Carpenter, representing the plaintiffs, opposes. The court has not yet ruled on this scheduling dispute.

Disagreements between the Estate’s legal team and Carpenter’s team extend beyond the trial date. Both sides are at odds over numerous due dates related to the submission of court documents leading up to the trial. In light of this, the judge has recommended that they work with a discovery mediator to resolve these disputes prior to bringing them before the court. Both parties have agreed to participate in this mediation process.

Additionally, the Estate’s attorneys argued that this case falls under the classification of Complex Litigation, which the judge has acknowledged and accepted. This designation can impact the case management procedures, potentially justifying the Estate’s request to push back deadlines due to the heightened demands of complex cases.

Significantly, the judge informed both parties that he would not be the judge presiding over the trial. This means a new judge will be assigned for the actual proceedings, which could influence how the case is managed as it progresses.

Currently, the next tentative court date has been scheduled for December 20, 2024. However, Carpenter noted he might be on vacation during this time, potentially requiring further adjustments.