The site, the lawsuit alleged, "does absolutely everything in its power to suggest to its visitors that it is the hub for all things Michael Jackson, and that it is sanctioned and supported by the estate, when in fact it is neither."

Visitors to the site can buy an "official" $39.99 coffee table book containing hundreds of photos from the Jackson family archive and apparently authorized by Katherine Jackson. The 80-year-old matriarch of the show business family is featured prominently in promotional photos.

The suit, filed in the US District Court, accuses Howard Mann and related parties of copyright infringement and misappropriation of likeness, among other charges. It seeks compensatory and punitive damages, as well as the defendants' profits. "People who trade off Michael's personality, copyrights, and trademarks should not be allowed to exploit the legacy of one of the world's most recognized talents for their own benefit," estate attorney Howard Weitzman said.

"Protecting and preserving Michael's assets are a core responsibility of the Estate and we will do everything the law permits to enforce those rights."