DNA Explainer: Britney Spears’ conservatorship saga, in pictures

Pop star Britney Spears has lost the legal battle to free herself from her father’s conservatorship, despite a testimony that sparked a debate on individual rights and freedom.

Her father, Jamie Spears, oversees Britney’s finances and civil liberties, as per the US conservatorship law, which is a form of adult guardianship. | Image Credit: musicandmood

Individuals deemed unable to protect their own interests, or having physical or mental limitations are made conservatees. Britney Spears became a conservatee after a 2008 incident.

She was 27 years of age at that time, was rumoured to be addicted to drug and suffering from mental health issues. She had just lost the custody of her children to her ex-husband.

A conservatee for over a decade, Britney has been highly-active during this time with back-to-back tours, music albums, brand endorsements, and as a reality show judge.

However, Britney has been powerless when it comes to major decisions in her life – she doesn’t control her own wealth.

As per the pop star, she was forced to work against her wishes, medicated against her will, and even not permitted to get married or have more children.

After years of silence, Britney decided to not perform until she was free of the conservatorship in 2018. Spurred by her fans who publicised #FreeBritney, she went to court.

In court, she opened up about 13 years of trauma, “I just want my life back… It’s enough… I deserve to have the same rights as anybody does.”

Britney’s conservators continue to hold power over her finances, visitations, security and major life decisions. continues to remain an functioning, productive adult without control over her life

Image Credits: Creative Commons, Wikimedia Commons, Flickr