Britney
Spears Attorney "Has No Authority" to Act on Her Behalf
2/27/08
A lawyer who claimed to represent Britney Spears is not her attorney
and has no authority to act on her behalf, a judge has ruled.
Earlier this month (Feb08), Jon Earley, who has practices in New York
and Washington, D.C. filed a federal complaint arguing the conservatorship
of the singer's estate violates her civil rights.
But Judge Philip Gutierrez ruled on Tuesday (26Feb08) the attorney
"acted improperly" in attempting to move the ongoing case from
Los Angeles Superior Court to a federal court.
Gutierrez also denied a request from Jamie Spears, Britney's father,
and his lawyer to recover legal costs to defend against the move. The case
is reported to have cost Spears around $40,000 (#20,000).
Earlier this month puzzled lawyers acting on behalf of Spears' estate
claimed the pop superstar couldn't have hired Eardley to represent her
because she's unable to do so under the terms of the conservatorship.
Spears' father Jamie was recently appointed conservator of his
daughter's estate in a state court - he has temporary control over the
Toxic singer's legal and financial affairs until 10 March (08).