A routine court hearing in Ventura County moved forward without one of its most recognizable defendants physically present, as Britney Spears resolved her recent DUI case through her attorney.
The 44-year-old singer did not attend Monday’s proceedings in Ventura County Superior Court, where her lawyer entered a plea on her behalf, per a report from Page Six.
According to officials, Spears accepted a reduced charge known as a “wet reckless,” a common outcome in cases involving first-time offenders, lower blood alcohol levels, and no reported crashes or injuries.
The plea brought a quick resolution to the case, which stemmed from her March 4 arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence.
As part of the agreement, Spears was placed on one year of informal probation. She is also required to complete a three-month alcohol education program totaling 30 hours.
Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko said the terms include strict conditions moving forward.
If Spears is stopped by law enforcement, she must submit to testing for alcohol or drugs.
Authorities are also permitted to search her vehicle for intoxicants, and she is prohibited from driving with any substances in her system.
“One of the key components of the disposition this morning was to make sure that Ms. Spears continued to undergo her mental health and substance abuse regimen,” Nasarenko said. “We are wholly in support of her doing so. This will include at least twice a month visits with her psychiatrist and once a week visits and sessions with a psychologist.”
He added, “Bottom line, whether you are a famous singer or a school teacher, we want the same thing for each and every first-time misdemeanor offender in Ventura County.”
The case followed her April 12 decision to check into a treatment facility for substance abuse. A source previously said, “This was her own choice… this is about Britney putting her mental health first.”
Spears was later seen out in public days before the hearing, riding as a passenger in a vehicle.
Her representative described the arrest as “an unfortunate incident” and said she intends to comply with all legal requirements moving forward.
