People often associate the word “conservatorship” with those who have been deemed incapable of handling their own money. In fact, a court may also agree to a conservatorship for people who are not able to properly care for themselves in other facets of their life, such as food, housing and medical treatment.
Back in 2008, pop star Britney Spears’ life seemed to be coming off the rails. She was regularly in the tabloids for her erratic behavior. Her manager at the time was alleged to have not only taken a substantial percentage of her income but also to be supply her with drugs.
That year, Spears’ father Jamie and an attorney went to court to put her under a conservatorship, with the two of them as her conservators. It was approved based a mental illness (the exact nature of which wasn’t disclosed) and substance abuse.
In the ensuing eight years, Spears seems to have turned her life around. Now 34, she has a $35 million residency contract at the Las Vegas Planet Hollywood, and she’s got a new album coming out. She regularly posts Instagram photos of her two sons and her, all looking happy and healthy.
Therefore, it may be surprising to learn that the conservatorship is still in effect. Indeed, some people in the media are questioning why it is and if her father should still be controlling her considerable wealth.
Interestingly, although her sons are included in the conservatorship, Spears appears to be the one making the parenting decisions for them. That’s a rather unique situation for someone under a conservatorship. However, as one attorney notes, it seems to have worked out for her.
Conservatorships are generally temporary and subject to court-approved renewal, particularly when they are spurred by situations such as drug abuse. Therefore, the singer could likely choose to contest hers and do so successfully. If and when she does that remains to be seen.
If you have a family member or loved one whom you believe needs the protection of a conservatorship, an experienced attorney can provide advice and help guide you through the process.
Source: Fox News, “Will Britney Spears ever be treated like an adult?,” Blanche Johnson, May 11, 2016