Charity Sued By Jackson's Estate

A charity has been sued by Michael Jackson's estate, which says it wrongly implied the singer supported its work. Lawyers say the Heal The World Foundation used websites and trademarks suggesting the late pop star endorsed donations to the organisation. The legal action, filed in the US Federal Court, says Jackson's own Heal The World charity is no longer active. Lawyers acting on behalf of Jackson's estate are entrusted with protecting his image and name. They are suing the charity for unfair competition, trademark infringement and other violations and are also asking a judge to prevent the use of Jackson's name. Jackson's estate is also seeking to block the use of words and phrases associated with the late pop star, including 'King of Pop' and 'Thriller'. Legal papers also said the foundation and a related body, United Fleet, have registered a number of Jackson-related trademarks, applied for a further 41 and sold merchandise using them. Jackson's estate, managed by lawyer John Branca and music executive John McClain, have already struck deals to market official merchandise including a coffee table book and calendars. The Heal The World Foundation, formed last year, which is billed as a "universal charity organization designed to improve the conditions of all mankind", could not be reached for comment.