How the #FreeBritney Movement Changed California Conservatorship Law: 3 Major Reforms

The highly publicized battle over Britney Spears' conservatorship didn’t just capture international attention—it changed California law. For over 13 years, Spears lived under a legal arrangement that controlled nearly every aspect of her life. Her story exposed serious flaws in the state's conservatorship system, sparking protests, social media campaigns, and ultimately, legislative reform.

Here are three major legal changes California made in response to the #FreeBritney movement:

1. Stronger Oversight of Conservatorships (AB 1194)

Signed into law in 2021, Assembly Bill 1194 dramatically reshaped how conservatorships are supervised. Before, many conservators operated with little scrutiny from the courts. AB 1194 changed that by:

• Requiring more frequent court reviews of conservatorship arrangements

• Mandating comprehensive reporting from conservators on a conservatee’s finances and well-being

• Imposing stricter penalties on conservators who abuse or neglect their responsibilities

These changes are designed to hold conservators accountable and ensure conservatees are treated with dignity and fairness.

2. The Right to Choose Your Own Attorney

One of the most shocking aspects of Britney’s conservatorship was that she wasn’t allowed to select her own lawyer for years. That’s no longer the case.

Under the new law, individuals under conservatorship now have a clear right to select their own legal counsel, unless they are found legally incapable of doing so by a judge. This empowers conservatees and provides them a greater voice in the legal process.

3. Mandatory Consideration of Less Restrictive Alternatives

California courts are now required to seriously consider less restrictive options before approving a conservatorship. This means judges must look at alternatives like:

• Supported decision-making arrangements

• Limited conservatorships with fewer powers granted to the conservator

• Temporary or voluntary solutions that respect the individual's autonomy

This shift promotes independence and personal freedom, recognizing that full conservatorship should be a last resort—not a default.

Why It Matters

These legal reforms mean California is no longer using a one-size-fits-all approach to conservatorships. Britney’s story was a wake-up call. Today, conservatees have more rights, more protections, and more say in their future.

Contact Duisters Law, APC if you have questions about a loved-one who needs conservatorship.