Deal reached on Jackson guardianship

Los Angeles - Michael Jackson's mother will share guardianship of the pop superstar's three children in a deal that will relieve her of some of the day-to-day stresses of managing a famous family, her attorney said on Friday.

The agreement came after days of turmoil in the Jackson family, including questions about Katherine Jackson's health and whereabouts.

The decision was made after a meeting between Katherine Jackson and lawyer Perry Sanders Jr on Thursday. He said Michael Jackson's eldest son has told attorneys he approves of the arrangement.

The proposal could be presented to a judge next week. If approved, it would make Tito Joe "TJ" Jackson, the son of Michael Jackson's brother Tito, a co-guardian of the children - Prince, Paris and Blanket - who range in age from 10 to 15.

"Mrs. Jackson is extremely pleased with the prospect of enjoying the pleasure of raising Michael's children without the day-to-day tedium of items such as managing the large staff that goes with such a high-profile family and focus her attention on being a grandmother and raising Michael's children," Sanders wrote in a statement.

A judge on Wednesday suspended Katherine Jackson's guardianship duties temporarily and appointed TJ Jackson as temporary guardian. He was expected to file a petition on Friday to become the children's permanent guardian, but Sanders said that is a formality meant to abide by court orders.

The judge said there were no indications the 82-year-old had done anything wrong, and he would likely re-instate her as guardian upon her return.

Katherine Jackson had been at an Arizona, spa since 15 July with her daughter Rebbie and other relatives and had not spoken to her grandchildren during that time.