Britney Spears' father Jamie was named permanent conservator of the singer's affairs yesterday (28.10.08).
Jamie - who was given legal control over the 26-year-old star in February following her two hospitalisations and public breakdown in January - was set to step down from the role on December 31, but a Los Angeles court has ruled he should continue indefinitely.
Following a lengthy meeting and evaluation of Britney's mental health records, her court-appointed lawyer Samuel Ingham told open court: "I've met several times with Britney and she requested that I not object to the permanent conservatorship."
Los Angeles Superior Court Commissioner Reva Goetz added: "The court finds the proposed permanent conservatorship is necessary and appropriate because of the complexities of her financial and business entities and also potential for her being susceptible to influences."
Jamie was also named permanent co-conservator of Britney's estate, along with the Spears' family lawyer Andrew Wallet. However, legal experts explain the decision to extend the conservatorship indefinitely does not mean Britney cannot regain total control of her life again in the future.
Terry K. Wasserman, a mental health lawyer who is not involved in Britney's case, said: "People shouldn't read too much into the word 'permanent'. In many cases, it's just a formality to avoid having to renew a temporary status over and over again."
A source close to mother-of-two Britney added: "This is by no means something that's going to last forever. The conservatorship being made permanent in name is primarily to ensure increased time with her children, and provide support for her music and work goals."