Los Angeles, Apr 27: Pop superstar Michael Jackson said today he had fired his lawyers because he felt his "life is at stake" in his battle against child sex charges In a statement justifying the surprise move, Jackson indicated he did not feel the lawyers, Mark Geragos and Benjamin Brafman, were making his interests a top priority.

Jackson's entourage announced yesterday that Geragos and Brafman had been replaced. The singer is expected to appear in court on Friday in the latest hearing of allegations that he molested a 12-year-old boy. "I have terminated the services of attorneys Mark Geragos, esquire, and Benjamin Brafman, esquire, effective immediately," said the statement. "I have hired Thomas Mesereau, a well-regarded criminal defence attorney, as lead counsel."

Jackson went on: "Let me make it clear, I have not replaced my defence team, I have replaced the lead attorneys. And, contrary to reports, this is a decision that I have personally made.”

"It is imperative that I have the full attention of those who are representing me. My life is at stake. Therefore, I must feel confident that my interests are of the highest priority. The lawyers were ousted amid reports of clashes between the attorneys and members of the pop singer's family and sizeable entourage.

Brafman said earlier he disagreed with Jackson's decision to drop him and Geragos, and also indicated there had been disagreements with the Jackson camp.

"I don't think it is a good idea to change lawyers when they are doing a good job," Brafman told ABC Television. Brafman said he and Geragos "have a proven record of success."


Bureau Report