Jackson faces accusers in court

Jackon and his family wore white in court to signify his innocence

Michael Jackson has appeared in court in California to see the mother of the boy accusing him of sexual abuse give evidence in a pre-trial hearing.

The 46-year-old star was accompanied by his sisters LaToya and Janet and his brother, who were all dressed in white.

In court, he stared grim-faced as the 36-year-old woman, identified only as "Jane Doe", took the stand.

Mr Jackson denies 10 child molestation charges. His lawyers want some evidence against him to be ruled out.

He and his family were greeted by cheers from the crowd and he waved to fans outside the Santa Barbara County courthouse.

Some fans arrived as early as 0400 local time (1100 GMT) to be awarded seats in the courtroom in a lottery.

Restricted

In the pre-trial hearing, "Jane Doe" crossed herself as she entered the witness box, before becoming involved in a tense exchange with Mr Jackson's attorney Thomas Mesereau.

Mr Jackson's fans have given vocal support during his troubles

The woman said Mr Jackson and his staff had kept the family prisoner at Mr Jackson's Neverland ranch and had talked of sending them to Brazil in order to silence them.

Mr Mesereau focused on two raids at the ranch in November 2003, saying they were illegal.

His questioning of the woman on Friday was aimed at trying to get evidence gathered in the raids ruled out.

Mr Jackson was not obliged to attend Friday's hearing, but decided to see his lawyers question the woman.

His trial is scheduled to begin on 31 January 2005.