Britney Spears, once one of the most popular musical performers in the world, has been mostly out of the public eye for years. However, due to issues with her mental health and substance abuse, James Spears was appointed conservator for Britney in 2008 in the state of California. She is now seeking to have that conservatorship modified or ended entirely, based on allegations that her father has abused his power as her conservator.
What is a Conservatorship?
In California, a conservatorship is an action brought in court where the judge appoints a person (a conservator) to care for another adult (the conservatee) who cannot care for themselves or manage their own finances. Typically, guardianships and conservatorships are used to ensure that minor children, elderly people with dementia, and adults with developmental disabilities have someone to act on their behalf. They are also sometimes put into place for people with severe mental health issues, or other medical conditions that impair their ability to handle their own legal, financial, or medical affairs.
Why Was Britney Spears in a Conservatorship?
In the mid-to-late 2000s, Britney Spears began having a series of public incidents that attracted a great deal of media attention. These incidents brought into question whether she was struggling with issues related to her mental health, including potential substance abuse. For these reasons, her father, James (Jamie) P. Spears, was appointed as her conservator in 2008. He served in that role with Andrew Wallet until 2019, when Mr. Wallet resigned. Jodi Montgomery was appointed as Britney Spears’ temporary conservator of the person in September 2019.
Why is This in The News?
Recently, allegations related to Britney Spears’ conservatorship have come to light, including Britney complaining about her treatment under her father’s care. She complained about having her personal fortune used by her family members, particularly her father, and stated that his treatment of her as her conservator was “abusive.” She also spoke about being put on lithium and having an intrauterine device (IUD) implanted against her wishes.
What is Britney Spears Looking to Do?
In court filings made in April 2021, Ms. Spears petitioned to end her conservatorship under her father and requested that Jodi Montgomery, the current temporary conservator be appointed as her permanent conservator. However, the court stated that Britney’s father should remain the head of her estate. With these most recent filings, she hopes to put her affairs under the control of someone she trusts more than her father, and to eventually end the need for a conservatorship entirely.
If you or a loved one are dealing with legal issues related to conservatorships or guardianships in New York State, or you are dealing with any other issue related to elder law, you will need specialized legal advice. The attorneys at Hobson-Williams, P.C. are skilled in all aspects of elder law, and are dedicated to representing clients with diligence and compassion. To speak to an attorney or to schedule a consultation, call 866-825-1LAW.
