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The woman's name was blacked out of the document, but the News-Press learned through Mr. Jackson's business associates that Evelyn "Evvy" Tavasci has worked for the 46-year-old entertainer for at least a dozen years, most recently as his personal assistant.

The News-Press contacted Ms. Tavasci late Wednesday, but she said a gag order prohibits her from commenting.

Ms. Tavasci rarely visits her employer's Neverland Valley Ranch but takes care of paying bills that are separate from his business ventures, the entertainer's former business associates said.

Authorities seized numerous items, including personal files and other paperwork, during the search, which took place on Sept. 15.

Mr. Jackson's defense team, led by Thomas Mesereau, claims the search violates attorney-client privilege because items seized relate to his legal representation -- including a list of possible trial witnesses and three folders labeled "Mesereau."

This search stemmed from one of nearly 100 warrants that have been issued in the high-profile case, at least 20 of which were approved within the past two weeks.

Mr. Jackson pleaded not guilty in April to child molestation and conspiracy charges. Trial is scheduled for January.

The court documents released Wednesday indicate that a day after Ms. Tavasci's residence was searched, defense lawyers filed an emergency application requesting the judge seal all items seized. Superior Court Judge Rodney Melville issued that order Wednesday.

Defense co-counsel Robert Sanger stated in the request that authorities know Mr. Jackson's personal assistant maintains his personal files.

"It is apparent from the inventories that some, if not all of the items seized, are covered by the attorney-client privilege," he wrote. "At this point, we believe at least one of the items, specifically, was a fax sent on behalf of the client to his lawyer regarding possible trial witnesses."

Defense lawyers also contested the search of private investigator Bradley Miller's Beverly Hills office in November 2003, contending that raid violated attorney-client privilege.

The judge has not yet ruled on the matter.

"It is particularly peculiar that officers would seek a search warrant such as this, and that the district attorney would approve of such a warrant, having been put on notice that their prior actions invaded the defense camp," Mr. Sanger said.

Source: News Press