LA Superior Court Judge Mitchell Beckloff has formally confirmed John Branca and John McClain as co-executors of Michael Jackson's estate.

The two men have been fulfilling that role for months now, of course, but their long term role in relation to the late king of pop's affairs was in question because of objections from the Jackson family. But with Jacko's mother Katherine now accepting the legal man and record industry exec as executors, and Joe Jackson's objections rejected by the courts, the two men's roles can be made permanent.

They have been granted authority over the Jackson estate until 4 Jan next year. Although it's still limited authority, I think that further expands their rights to enter into deal on the estate's behalf without having to get specific court approval.