FREE BRITNEY
EARLY AUGHTS POP STAR BRINGS ATTENTION TO CONSERVATORSHIP LAWS
Do you know what a conservatorship is? If you’ve cared for an aging parent, there’s a chance you’re familiar with this legal concept, which allows the court to appoint a legal guardian for an adult who is unable to make their own decisions. It comes up most often in cases where an individual has dementia or a serious mental illness, and it can apply to that person’s estate and finances (known as “conservator of the state”), as well as personal decisions (“conservator of the person”). It’s not just adults with aging parents who are familiar with this somewhat obscure legal concept, though. Early aughts pop star Britney Spears has a devoted fan base that’s acquired legal acuity around conservatorship laws because of her battle to remove her father, Jamie Spears, as her conservator. After Britney suffered a mental health crisis in 2008, a California court appointed Jamie to be the legal conservator of her affairs. He was the conservator of the person for Britney until he stepped down in 2019, citing health reasons. But he maintained sole legal control
over Britney’s reported $59 million fortune until last November, when the court appointed a co-conservator after Britney’s lawyers requested that Jamie be removed from the court order. Hardcore Britney fans began the #FreeBritney movement in 2009 after seeing how the conservatorship stripped Britney of her freedom and rights. The movement has since gained greater attention, especially following the release of the documentary “Framing Britney Spears” earlier this year. The documentary takes a deep dive into conservatorship laws, including the difficulties Britney and her lawyers have had in changing the legal parameters to reflect her wishes. It also brings up questions about how a performer who has put out nine studio albums, had a Las Vegas residency, and made multiple television appearances would be unable to make her own decisions about her personal life and finances.
Britney’s lawyers are still fighting to remove her father entirely from the conservatorship of her estate, but it’s been an uphill battle. While she has not yet asked to end the conservatorship, lawyers interviewed by The New York Times for the documentary said most conservatorships don’t end until the person they are ordered for dies. Britney’s case is bringing up new legal questions and has been an unlikely but powerful way for the public to learn more about this legal concept.
Need a Cool and Refreshing Snack?
FRUIT KABOBS In a hurry for your next family potluck? Grab those huge boxes of cut fruit from the grocery store and create your own fruit kabobs. If you don’t mind cutting the fruit yourself to save some extra money, then go for it! You can even get your kids involved with plucking grapes and cutting apples if they’re able to. EVERY WATERMELON HACK YOU’VE NEVER TRIED Life is short, so why not turn your watermelon into a “watermelon margarita dispenser”? Just cut a circular hole into your watermelon, let an upside-down tequila bottle rest on top as it integrates the alcohol into the inside of your watermelon, then leave it in the fridge until your ready. Use an automatic whisk to create a slurry inside and pour out your drinks! There’s so many watermelon hacks on the internet, you’ll never run out of fun tricks to try.
Trying to stay cool while saving on your energy bill? Here are a few tasty food ideas that’ll keep the whole family feeling refreshed this summer! ARUGULA, STRAWBERRY, AND CHEESE WRAP Grab your favorite tortilla wrap (maybe even a herb rosemary wrap!) and lay out arugula, cut strawberries, goat cheese, or another cheese that you enjoy. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sea salt, wrap, and you have the perfect delicious, healthy summer wrap! PROSCIUTTO AND PLUM SANDWICHES Peanut butter and jam? Never heard of her. Give your savory and sweet sandwiches a makeover with this seasonal treat. Grab some in-season plums (or peaches!) and fresh slices of prosciutto, best enjoyed on whole grain or sourdough bread. If you include a glass of wine, you might even feel like you’re on the coast of Italy. SHAVED CARROTS WITH QUINOA SALAD Shave down a few carrots, add several spoonfuls of cooked and cooled quinoa, add a drizzle of your favorite dressing, and bam! You have a delicious, filling salad that’ll keep you on track with any health goals. You can also add currants, cashews, or both to add more flavor complexity.
We hope you’ll enjoy these refreshing summer treats. From our team at County Civil, we hope you stay cool!
2 COUNTYCIVIL.COM
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