And Brit Brit Regains Control Again???

Attempts by Britney Spears' family to tighten their grip on the troubled pop star have failed, it has been claimed today.

The legal conservatorship granted to Britney's father Jamie Spears - and more recently her brother Bryan who attempted to get control over her day-to-day finances - has been deemed invalid.

New York attorney Jon Eardley is now acting on behalf of the 26-year-old, who was desperate to regain control over her life - and estimated $100-million fortune.

Eardley's new spokesperson Michael Sands says a legal loophole means yesterday's order by commissioner Reva Goetz to extended the conservatorship order until at least March 10 is "void and invalid".

Sands tells Mail Online: "Because the latest court order appointing Britney's father conservator wasn't signed until after the notice of removal was filed with the Los Angeles Superior Court, the order extending the conservatorship is void."

He continued: "It not necessary to have a federal judge or magistrate sign a notice of removal."

It means Mr Spears is now unable to restrict Britney's visitors or approve contracts.

Sands also represents Britney's former manager Sam Lutfi, but sources say Britney's new lawyer came to him independently.

The respected Hollywood publicist, who also acts as a media image consultant, previously worked for Kevin Federline's lawyer, Mark Kaplan, before quitting to work for Lutfi last week.

It is the lastest twist in Spears' complex legal case, following her release from a psychiatric hospital earlier this month.

This Is London

But.....

The hearing over Britney Spears’ conservatorship has just concluded and the Commissioner has extended papa Jamie Spears’ hold until the next hearing on March 10.

The Commissioner has also ordered that Britney undergo what’s called a 730 evaluation — a study of a family for the purposes of child custody — the results of which need to be turned in to her by the next hearing.

Not good news for Miss Spears. As you may recall, she was hoping her attorney would offer “compelling evidence” showing she is fit to take back control of her own life.

Too bad. Better luck next time, Brit!

Faded Youth