Spears-Federline custody ruling comes down

Britney Spears, 25, and ex-husband Kevin Federline, 29, have a long list of rules to follow if they want to keep their boys — Sean Preston, 2, and Jayden James, 1. The results of custody case were revealed this evening, with the court finding Britney a ‘habitual, frequent, and continuous user of controlled substances.‘

Click below for the rules for both parents, and the additional ones required for Britney.

Both Kevin and Britney must adhere to the following:

• Neither can take Sean and Jayden out of state without the written consent of the other.
• They cannot make derogatory statements about each other.
• They both must complete the "Parenting Without Conflict" program — they must enroll by the end of this week.
• Britney and Kevin are both forbidden from using corporal punishment with the children or allowing anyone else to.
• They are required to engage in joint co-parenting counseling –  both sides must decide on selection of a therapist by week’s end.
• Neither Britney nor Kevin may consume alcohol or non-prescription controlled substances 12 hours prior to taking custody of the children.
• They must ensure that any prospective childcare professionals hold valid Red Cross infant CPR training.

Britney must additionally:

• Attend individual counseling at least once a week to address parenting issues.
• Meet with a parenting coach for a minimum of 8 hours a week, in atleast two sessions a week. The coach is to observe her parenting skillsand her interaction with her sons and provide Kevin with a writtenprogress report by October 22. In addition, the coach will provide lawyers on both sides with written reports, and will appear in court at the ex-couple’s next hearing on Nov. 26.
• Based on the evidence presented, the Court found that thereis a habitual, frequent, and continuous use of controlled substances by Britney, and she will have to undergo testing for controlledsubstances and alcohol. The testing shall be conducted twice per weekon random dates and times, and the results will be forwarded to thecourt.

Custody will remain 50/50 for each parent if the rules are followed and Britney’s tests come back clean; Kevin’s request of 70/30 was not granted.

Sources: Us Weekly; People

Comments

I already posted down below on the FED thread for the poss hit on him. But, in addition…the thing about Kevin receiving a progress report is just ridiculous IMO. Now,the courts getting a report, yes. Lets HOPE Britney takes this seriously, gets herself together, and proves everyone wrong. I am rooting for ya, Brit! You can do this!

- tink1217 on September 18th, 2007

As I said in an earlier post, I think that this was a very fair ruling! Kevin and his lawyer both seemed very happy with it as well saying they were “grateful” for the outcome.

I really hope that this will be the beginning of the end of this whole mess, that Britney will seek the help she needs and that she will get better. Of course, I truly believe that in order for her to get better she has to WANT to get better and unless she wants it for herself no court ruling will make a difference.

It seems the judge was pretty disgusted with all that was presented. And it should be noted that the 50/50 custody will remain in effect only if Britney passes the drug tests and completes her classes and meetings. She could lose custody very easily now if she drops the ball. I think this will truly show whether or not she’s serious about wanting to keep her children in her life.

I really hope for her and for those two precious boys that all goes well!

- Rachel on September 18th, 2007

Whoa. Accountability and Responsibility is in the house!!

- Principesa on September 18th, 2007

Standing ovation to the spectacular judge who ruled on this case! Hopefully now the boys have a chance at a future.

- Sarah on September 18th, 2007

I think that is awesome!

- Lynn on September 18th, 2007

Agree Sarah.

I hope Britney will show that she is a good mother and wants her children and that they BOTH take this seriously. I guess only time will tell. And hopefully some peace can come between everyone involved. I don’t think the best option would be to rip the boys from Brit. I do believe she loves them just maybe is unable to really show how (with parenting classes maybe she can improve). I wish them and the boys well.

- J.M. on September 18th, 2007

I think this is wonderful. Yes, kudos go to the judge who ruled in this case. The one thing I am most happy about is the fact that she is required to attend counseling sessions. I truly believe she may be suffering with depression and probably has been at least since the split. I just hope that she will get the help that she needs now.

- Jessica L. on September 18th, 2007

It’s a little frightening. What on earth was going on behind the scenes if this is what the judge has ruled? That he even has to address corporal punishment?

Those poor boys, I can’t imagine their reality.

- chatty cricket on September 18th, 2007

Britney and Kevin are both in need of a change of heart. Typical of today’s lifestyle they both need to think of someone besides themselves. Rarely can morals be influenced by external means. I pray they both will wake up to the blight of the children. They only have to look at their peers to know how little chance children of the rich and famous have today. The wisdom to raise children comes from only one sourse and hopefully Kevin and Britney will be led there. God Bless

- chuck on September 18th, 2007

I am glad that the judge is requiring both Brit and Kev to attend parenting classes and refrain from alcohol and drugs at least 12 hours prior to being around the kids. While we all know that Brit has had issues with substance abuse and partying so has Kevin. So it’s good that they both are going to be monitored.

- lizzielui on September 18th, 2007

Honestly I think the judge was being very unfair to Kevin. I think he’s a better parent than her. Even his ex Shar Jackson has said he’s a good parent. I think he gets a bad rap because it seems like he was only with her for her money. He is making sure the boys are in a stable environment and even makes sure they see their maternal grandparents which she doesn’t seem to care about. If it was anyone else she would have lost those kids until she could prove that she is clean and finished all the parenting classes. I wonder what is going on to address corporal punishment. Again I think this is very unfair to Kevin because he already has children that he has cared for regularly. Brittany even used to take his kids places. I’m just wondering if she’s suffering from PPD or something. Best wishes to them as a family.

- Mary on September 18th, 2007

This certainly does sound like a fair and thorough ruling. Nothing drastic but strict guidelines and it includes mechanisms for change and improvement.

Watching Britney deconstruct is just sad. It just seems like she is spinning out of control. She is an adult so her managers, lawyers and parents can’t do much. Obviously though when it comes to her kids, the courts can do something. That is obviously a great thing for her kids, but maybe also will have a positive impact on Britney as well. I really hope so.

- madison on September 18th, 2007

I’m glad that they were able to work out a 50/50 deal. I really think Britney would’ve done something drastic if the boys were taken away from her.

- anna on September 18th, 2007

corporal punishment?? The boys are 1 and 2!!!Why would you evenconsider using corporal punishment on BABIES???!!! What a messed up family life those boys must have. How sad sad sad.

- KayLee on September 18th, 2007

Britney’s thumbed her nose at everyone who’s given her advice or told her what to do (mom, family, managers, lawyers, the general public)…I have a hard time believing a judge could change her “I do what I want” mindset.

- Stef on September 18th, 2007

I feel very strongly about parents being monitored extremely closely if they are using “controlled substances,” recreationally and alcohol. I wonder if there will be social workers visits and that kind of thing. I hope so, I think that this woman is on a fast downward spiral. Maybe Brit’s MOther could and should step in.

- Aitch on September 18th, 2007

I’m curious – what happens if Britney doesn’t follow through on this?

Sarah’s note: She will lose custody of the boys. The 50/50 split is all contingent on them following the rules.

- Kimber Christian on September 18th, 2007

Tink, I think Kevin getting a progress report is a good idea. That way he can be assured that their children’s mother is really trying to get help.You may not like him but I don’t think it’s fair to kind of act like he doesn’t love his children. He may not be father of the year but I still think he cares for his children.Hopefully this wakes up Britney to the fact that she isn’t above the law and that the court isn’t afraid to take away her kids.I’m glad they have her taking parenting classes.I think she had her kids too young in her case. Some women can handle having children young but other can’t and Britney is one of those.I think that just because you can have a baby doesn’t mean you should.I believe in waiting until you feel you are really ready and mature enough to handle taking care of a child.

- Renee on September 18th, 2007

Kaylee,

You would be surprised at the number of parents who use corporal punishment on children that young. I see it everyday on the streets here in NYC. Young mothers and fathers who hit their kids for the least little thing. I was in the grocery store the other day and a young woman slapped her son who looked to be about two and a half or three because he picked up some gum while in the check out line. A lot of parents believe that if you “train them” when they are young then they will be less of a problem as they get older. It’s sick. In this case with Brit and Kevin, there is no way to tell if either of them hit the kids. The judge’s orders could be precautionary and routine for all we know. But believe me when I tell you that this happens in everyday life quite regularly.

- lizzielui on September 18th, 2007

I hope they pull it together.. I am tired of hearing negative about celebs. Bravo to the judge!

- Sarah F. on September 18th, 2007

Thats a whole lot of conditions…..If Kevin was truly the better parent he would have received more custody, sounds like he has some work to do to. The corporal punishment did freak me out, but if you notice it is addressed to both parents not just Britney.

I’ve always thought Kevin had issues too, he’s just better at hiding it!!

- Ivey on September 18th, 2007

kevin’s request should’ve been granted. I’m glad she has to submit to frequent drug testing though. I’ll pray for those kids. Neither is a particularly impressive parent from what I’ve seen…but I think Kevin’s better at parenting than Britney.

- lena on September 18th, 2007

I think this is a very fair ruling, I hope Britney can keep up her end of the deal and get her life back together. I’m also glad that they finally proved that she is on controlled substances so she quit denying that she has a problem.

- Kaley on September 18th, 2007

ITA with Principesa and Sarah! Thank G-d Almighty for that judge! Let’s all give responsibility and accountability a round of applause as they make their entrance. While I’m sure those little angels are the loviest things ever, it amazes me that Britney Spears and Kevin Federline were allowed to procreate. I’m sorry but I don’t find either one particularly lovely right about now. They both need to grow the hell up and get it together, these aren’t kids, these are two grown a** people who made babies. Put down the bottles, put down the drugs, leave the clubs alone, quit with the media grandstanding on both ends, and stay your behinds with your kids. Use some G-d given common sense and GROW UP. I apologize for ranting but it’s a shame when people who actually want kids and can be good parents can’t have them while these two are fortunate enough to be able to do so and won’t get their crap together.

- Grayson's Girl on September 18th, 2007

Hopefully this gives Britney the push in the right direction that she’s so desperately needed for so long.

- Cait on September 18th, 2007

This whole situation disgusts me.
When the boys are “with” Britney they are just being cared for by nannies, personal assistants, ect. There is no way that with Britney loosing her mind and all that she can properly care for her children.
She needs to do some serious therapy and courses and take time to her self to get her life back in order. The judge should have given full custody to Kevin and if Britney can prove herself clean and stable in a year she can have custody back. That would have been the best thing for those poor kids.
I dont say any of this because I dont like Britney or whatever. I’ve always been a big fan of hers, however I’ve seen situations before where one parent is completely out of it and the judge ends up giving custody to the wrong parent and the kids get very messed up. IMO Brit is suffering from some very serious depression.

- Kelsey on September 18th, 2007

I hope it all works out for everyone. I will say this for Britney… she never addresses any rumors, badmouthing, etc. about her. She keeps her mouth closed and so do her lawyers. So we don’t really know her side of things. Obviously it’s not all Kevin’s lawyers made it out to be. Good luck to the whole family!

- melanie on September 18th, 2007

Yay for random drug testing!

- Jenna on September 18th, 2007

melanie: I think the judges ruling makes it clear that the situation was all the Kevin and his lawyers made it out to be. The judge is just being incredibly generous in giving her a trial period to get her act together before going to the next step of taking the kids away. If there was nothing that bad going on with Britney, as your post seems to be implying, the judge wouldn’t have imposed such strict restrictions on Britney as conditions for her keeping custody.

- Kate on September 18th, 2007

Kevin gets a progress report? I wish the media would take more photos of him with his other kids through Shar. they make it seem like he doesn’t care.

Then again, these kids with Brittany any certainly giving him time in the spotlight.

- Jen on September 18th, 2007

All I can say is that I hope Britney takes this seriously and does what she needs to do and straightens her self and her life out, for her own sake and her boys sake. Secondly, we don’t really know what’s been going on behind closed doors, and these rules and stipulations don’t go into details about EXACTLY what was going on either. But, obviously Kevin must not have been being an angel himself, either.
Lastly, I REALLY don’t think they should have made all of this public for the world to see. I know all court record are public, but I just think some things should be kept between the ones it involves, not the entire world.
Good luck Brit..I am pulling for you!

- nicksmomma on September 18th, 2007

UGH! What a huge, stinkin’ mess this is turning into!! Those POOR, POOR little boys!!! Now, I am all about parents being able to keep their children, but my feeling on this situation is that if there is going to be this much controlling of each parent in order for these boys to have a proper raising….find another relative who is capable of raising these boys in a normal environment!!!

- Candace on September 18th, 2007

I don’t seem to understand why people don’t understand that DISCIPLINE AND BEATING(as in child abuse) is two different things.Parents who choose to spank there kids have that right to.I was spanked as a child and i turned out perfectly fine.

- StaceyQ on September 18th, 2007

Lets hope Britney passes the ‘controlled substances and alcohol’ test!

- Clare on September 18th, 2007

Well a HUGE hug and kiss for this judge–this is exactly how this should be–not a slap on the wrist and not a stern taking to–ACCOUNTABILITY–I am so happy the judge was incredibly SPECIFIC in the ruling and made things crystal clear–in another note, those poor boys for what they’ve clearly been subjeoted to…HOPEFULLY this is the wake-up call for everyone–those BOYS need to come first–nothin else!

HUGE KUDOS for that judge–and frankly if Brit doesn’t follow through with all of the requirements, she deserves to lose those boys–and the same with Kevin…

Finally, the boys are being put first…

- Megan on September 18th, 2007

Excellent ruling. Kudos to this judge for treating them as PARENTS, not as celebrities. This family needs the accountability the judge is requiring. I wish all judges followed this model.

Also, the reports to Kevin are pretty standard–if she has to report to the court, Kevin’s attorneys get a copy of those reports, so that they can recommend any changes at the next hearing.

- wavybrains on September 18th, 2007

I agree with Rachel about the ruling. Its a fair ruling for both of them, who seem to be in a confused state. Britney absolutely is disturbed and needs a lot of counseling when it comes to parenting her children. I believe that both Britney and Kevin should follow the rules strictly. If britney can follow this and over come her current confused state, It’ll be good for her and her children.

- chandu on September 18th, 2007

It does seem like Britney has issues. I really can’t blame her she’s worked her whole life supporting a bunch of people who want money from her. She didn’t get the love & support unconditionally, so how can she do the same for her boys. She does need help. Hopefully, if she loves her boys enough, she’s really work on this.

I find it funny that for all the Britney bashing going around both Britney & Kevin are forbidden from using corporal punishment & BOTH are forbidden from alcohol & substance usage. I always thought something was wrong with Kevin. He really is better at hiding things. If he really were the better parent, he would have gotten more custody. Plus, it seems like when he has custody of the kids he pawns them off on Britney’s parents bc she has issues w/them. If he really is such a great parent, why doesn’t he have his other kids around him more? Maybe because he can’t get anymore $ from Shar but he sure will from Britney. Shar benefits from Britney’s money too via any support Kevin gives. What does he do for a living anyway? Is he successful?

Maybe the boys would be better in another situation w/o either parent especially if they can’t get their acts together.

- Tuppulla on September 19th, 2007

Kevin said he likes to drink around the kids:

“Man, I kick my feet up, get a little martini and sit out by the pool with my kids!”

It’s on Extra TV site
http://extratv.warnerbros.com/2007/09/kevin_federline_im_trying_to_h.php

I don’t think I saw this posted on your site !?!

- Roxana on September 19th, 2007

The prohibition on corporal punishment is standard boilerplate language in any divorce (at least in California)- it doesn’t mean anything about what’s going on in this particular situation.

- Laura on September 19th, 2007

“Young mothers and fathers who hit their kids for the least little thing. “

Why do you feel the need to imply that that is something only “young” parents do? As a young mother I find that offensive. I have seen and heard of plenty of situations in which older parents have used spanking or slapping to discipline their children. While immaturity may contribute to Britney’s issues with parenting, it is unfair the bad rap that young parents as a group get. There is no proof that being older makes you a better parent. I am 22 years old and I have an 18 month old daughter, and I have experienced lots of disapproving looks and snobby attitudes from people, despite the fact that my daughter appears to be, and is, a healthy, happy, perfectly well cared for child. My fiancee and I are responsible, hard working parents who have devoted our lives to our little girl, and I don’t like being categorized as a “young parent”…as if it is something different. I am a mother just like all of the 30 and 40 year old women with children, and I feel my parenting skills are equal to any of them.

- Anne on September 19th, 2007

I agree it’s frightening that the judge had to address corporal punishment, and it’s scary too that Britney has to undergo drug and alcohol tests. God only knows what Sean and Jayden must be living with their mother! Not saying Kevin is squeaky clean, but he undeniably managed to look like the more responsible parent.
I hope Britney will learn her lesson and pick herself up for the sake of her boys.

- Aleah on September 19th, 2007

I wholeheartedly agree with the judge for making a ruling on the corporal punishment issue. I was hit and punched as a child and my father thought it was all part of raising me. We have no relationship now and I’m glad of it, I just hope that this doesn’t happen to Sean and Jayden. IMO, it is always wrong to hit a child, no matter the intention. Good behaviour should come through respect, not fear.

On the issue of Kevin’s custody request being turned down, to me it screams that all this stuff that’s been said in the press recently might just be hot air on his side, ie no substance to it. I’m the first to admit, I’ve never liked this guy one little bit. I think it’s clear that he liked the money with Britney and he’s lucky things haven’t turned out worse for him. I never have understood what beautiful Britney saw in him. Have we all forgotten the reports about him going out partying and cheating all the time while mum Britney was left at home with the babies? And this while they were still married.

What’s clear in this situation is that both parents need some help, and I hope this ruling is enough to make that happen. I just wonder why Kevin isn’t being ordered for drug testing as well though, he’s been rumoured to be involved with that for a long time. If dad is as innocent as he likes to make out, he would be doing this voluntarily, instead of concentrating on smearing mum’s parenting. Those poor boys.

Good luck Britney .

- Lola on September 19th, 2007

just remember everybody…these are conditions they BOTH have to follow to keep their kids so although Britney has more to do…Kevin also has some work to do. So, it goes both ways. I really hope Brit can get her act together and be the mother we all know she can be(and has been in the past, before all this).

- tink1217 on September 19th, 2007

how long do they have to keep this up for? it’s extreme,(not to mention embarrassing) i don’t know if i could do it. obviously, like everyone here, i hope the boys lives can improve but i don’t know if they can do this.

- ang on September 19th, 2007

I keep worrying that the next time we hear anything about Britney it will be tragic. I think she has herself in so deep she doesn’t know how to get back out. Hopefully this will be a way back to normal for her.

- Jean on September 19th, 2007

WINNERS~ Sean and Jayden!! I feel this judge is being incredibly generous to BS and giving her a REAL opportunity to be a parent. Her “people” must be wiping the sweat off their collective brows. This intervention has been a long time coming. Thank goodness before anything beyond repair has happened, namely a serious injury or death. THIS is fixable, where there is life, there is hope. Just a few thoughts to add: I saw an interview recently w/ the man who created “South Park”. Anyone who knows anything about this animated program knows that it holds NOTHING back in its jabbs at people in the news. Even this man said he would not be writing anything about BS in any of his upcoming scripts because he said there “is a point where it isn’t funny anymore”. He said “I don’t want the girl to die”. I found that telling of where the pulse of pop culture is. Personally, I think we have all here felt this has been a terrifyingly tragic situation for a while now. Certainly NOTHING amusing at all. As far as the topic of corporal punishment: We’ve taught our 9 yr. old daughter to use her “fight or flight” response to anyone laying a hand on her. Whether it’s a beloved grandparent, friend, friend’s parent, church elder, etc…. If she can’t flee the situation to avoid a slap, hit, etc., then she is to do what she needs to do to DEFEND herself. She is taught that defending herself is a right. NO matter whom it is, she can hit, kick, bite, etc. to defend her body. Then she is to get to an adult and call 911 if necessary. Now, keep in mind I’m NOT talking about if another little person (like her 3 yr. old nephew) was to hit her. She knows the difference, we have been VERY specific when it and is not appropriate. I was raised by a VERY heavy handed mother from the “old school” of thought on discipline/punishment (she didn’t know the difference). I got hit w/ the switches that I had to get myself… she used anything she could get her hands on: hairbrushes, hangers, pans, irons, etc…. And I was a well behaved and loving child. NOT BECAUSE OF THE ABUSE, BUT IN SPITE OF IT! I extend my extreme sense of HOPE to BS, KF, and all involved. They CAN come out of this. I am an eternal optimist.

- Campbell on September 19th, 2007

Mary: At one point, a Dr did say that he thought she had PPD. It would explain a lot if she really did have it (or have Post Partum Psychosis). The symptoms of post partum psychosis include drug & alcohol abuse, hallucinations, random behavior, etc. It would make sense to say that she could have had PPD with Sean Preston, and it never got treated before she got pregnant with Jayden, thus becoming a bigger and bigger issue.

As a Britney fan, and someone who wants to see her succeed again, I think this is GREAT. It kinda forces her to get back on a good track. It forces her to get help that she obviously needs to become a better woman and mother. I only hope for the sake of her boys that she follows through and comes out better in the end.

- Nicole on September 19th, 2007

I personally think she’ll lose those boys within a month. Someone with a drug and alcohol problem needs to admit to their problem first, and she has not done that. Thinking that she’s just going to quit at the drop of a hat is asking a lot of an addict. Kids or not.

As for the corporal punishment clause…I would hate to think they’re spanking such little ones, but if they are, it’s their business. I don’t agree with a judge getting involved in how kids are disciplined.

- Lisa on September 19th, 2007

I agree that the judge made a fair and prudent ruling. He took in all the information and made a decision in the best judgement of the children, which is who this is about.

Its not about Britney and its not about Kevin. It’s about 2 very young little boys who are getting a very tumultuous start to their lives. They didn’t ask for this and no child deserves this.

Hopefully all parties will get their acts straight and this will turnaround. But I’m not optimistic that the light of reality and responsibility has gone off for Ms. Spears. I will not be surprised to find that she fails what she wanted most in the world due to immaturity and an inability to get help and get herself pulled together for the sake of her children.

Who would have thought we would actually “root”, to a certain degree, for her ex-husband. But its about who can best parent and raise and nurture these young boys so they don’t grow up to be a mess in society. Their mother is not setting a great example right now. Hopefully, she’ll be able to change that, but only time will tell.

- Anna on September 19th, 2007

I FIND PRETTY FUNNY THAT WHEN THEY WERE MARRIED IT WAS KEVIN THAT WAS OUT PARTYING, DRINKING, SMOKING LIVING IT UP. NEVER WOULD SEE WITH HIS OTHER CHILDREN? SO WHEN BRITNEY WANTED A DIVORCE I THINK HE GOT PISSED BECAUSE HE NO LONGER HAD HIS PERSONAL PIGGY BANK ANYMORE… I DO HONESTLY FEEL THAT THIS IS ABOUT THE MONEY..WHY DO I THINK THAT?? I SURE AS HELL DON’T SEE TRYING TO FIGHT FOR HIS OTHER TWO KIDS? SHAR REALLY HAS NOTHING TO SAY ABOUT THIS MATTER, BECAUSE WHEN BRITNEY AND KEVIN WERE MARRIED I SAW A COUPLE OF PICS, OF BRITNEY WITH SHAR’S DAUGHTER NOT KORI, BUT WITH HER OLDER DAUGHTER. EXCUSE ME IF SHE WAS SUCH A BAD PERSON THEN WHAT KIND OF MOTHER IS SHE TO EVEN ALLOW HER KIDS THAT DON’T EVEN BELONG TO KEVIN SPEND TIME WITH HER?? I FEEL THAT PEOPLE REALLY NEED TO CUT SOME SLACK WITH BRITNEY. AT THE END OF THE DAY NOBODY CAN BE THE PERFECT PARENT…MAYBE IT REALLY NEVER CROSSED ANYONE MIND THAT MAYBE SHE COULD HAVE BEEN SUFFERING FROM POST-PARTUM DEPRESSION?? THAT CAN HAPPEN TO ANYONE EVEN CELEBRITIES…

- MELISSA on September 19th, 2007

I personally think Britney is a lost cause. I think the judge should have given temporary custody to Kevin, or to the grandparents. People have lost their children (at least temporarily) for much lesser offenses. The system is definitely not perfect in those cases, but there is some obvious neglect here. Hopefully she will get it together someday, but right now I think she is just acting spoiled, rich and out of control.

- Tara on September 19th, 2007

It’s sad that those kids need a judge and the law to protect them from their parents.

- Luciana on September 19th, 2007

Looks like the progress report will be given to lawyers for both sides.

“The Parenting Coach shall provide each counsel with a written progress report…”

- Kris on September 19th, 2007

The judge did good, I agree with everything.Yay for drug testing and parental classes, let’s see how that goes.

- gabriella on September 19th, 2007

I truly believe it is only a matter of time until she loses her kids.

After all the stuff that went down in the past couple days (being dropped by her lawyer, manager, assistant) AND the courts rulings regarding what she needs to do to keep her kids, she goes out clubbing last night to TWO places AND is seen doing a “Chinese Fire Drill” and laughing it up earlier in the day. (see tmz.com for this).

I cannot fathom how she is going out clubbing and appearing in such high spirits and NOT being with her kids in spite of the grave situation she is in right now.

Mark my words: She will lose those boys. She’s utterly hopeless.

- yogadaisy2 on September 19th, 2007

There’s no way she’ll pass random drug testing – those kids will be with Kevin 100% of the time in about a week or two. Just hours after the ruling, where was Britney? Oh yeah, she went club-hopping! Clearly there is something very wrong with her. This is not a normal response to a judge telling you you need to clean up your act or lose your kids. Hopefully the therapist can get through to her and get her the help that she has rejected thusfar.

I’m no psychiatrist, but she seems almost like she’s had a psychotic break. She has lost all touch with reality and accountability and has cut off all the people who care about her the same way a lot of drug addicts do. I think she’s self-medicating with drugs to combat a bigger, mental problem–and I really hope she gets psychological help. It’s a pity she’s no longer underage or married to Kevin, because then he or her parents would have been legally able to have her committed to a psych ward for observation. She needs help and is too far gone to realize it or think clearly!! This is how people end up homeless on the street.

- PSB on September 19th, 2007

Anne,

I included the words “young mothers” in my posts because we are in fact talking about Britney Spears who is a young mother and because that is what I have been witness to here in NYC. I was describing what I have seen with my own two eys. I was not saying young parents are the only ones who use corporal punishment on their kids so please let’s not start a debate on that because that is not what this is about. While I am sure that women of all ages use various forms of corporal punishment with their children the most agregious cases that I have seen have in fact involved young mothers who lack patience and proper parenting skills when dealing with toddlers. My sister is a psychologist for the Office of Children and Family Services here in NYC and the majority of cases that come across her desk involve mothers between the ages of 15-26. My post was not meant to slight anyone so please do not be offended. I was simply stating what I have witnessed and commenting on how corporal punishment is not out of the ordinary outside of Hollywood when it comes to disciplining toddlers. It is actually more regular than people want to believe. The woman that I saw in the grocery store was probably 18 years old at the most. And whether one wants to believe it or not, a lot of teenage mothers lack proper parenting skills and often find themselves in situations where they are overwhelmed and seek a quick fix when disciplining their children.

- lizzielui on September 19th, 2007

In response to the people who said Kevin’s request for more custody being denied is proof that what he and his lawyers said was all hot air: No it is not proof. In fact, the judges ruling is proof that he was telling the truth. The ruling clearly stated that she is a habitual drug user.

- Kate on September 19th, 2007

I hope for the best for the boys, that’s really all. I can’t get on the “Britney’s such a wonderful mother!” bandwagon, because #1, how would any of us really know that? and #2, there are plenty of wonderful moms out there who work hard, don’t do drugs, set a good example, and wear their panties, so I’m not sobbing over whether this spoiled girl does or doesn’t have custody.

- daphneesmith on September 19th, 2007

Lizzielui–Yes, but I see twice as many parents who do nothing to control their children, instead getting angry at people who would dare control their children.
This is a huge problem at my church where kids run around afterwards…at times, nearly knocking elderly people over. And when concerned adults tell the kids to stop running, the parents freak out. They also don’t monitor their kids when in the parking lot, which is just downright unsafe…again getting upset when somebody else steps in…
So personally, a light smack on the butt (not beating, of course) is preferable to letting your kid run around, breaking old peoples’ hips.

- Stef on September 19th, 2007

Stef, I am 100% with you on people who do nothing to control their children. It is so frustrating.

- daphneesmith on September 19th, 2007

Stef I totally agree, BUT…in this day and age if you dare swat your kid on the behind in public you are opening yourself up to people calling child protective services on you. Unfortunate, but true. My son is autistic and moderately mentally challenged. It used to be hard to “control” him in public and when he would have a tantrum it was horrible. Well, my husband found the only way to even remotely get him calmed down was to hold his face in his hands and make him look at him in the eyes and talk sternly to him. Sometimes it worked, others it didn’t. After putting him on medication and having behavior therapies in school and at home…he does much better now. But I can’t tell you how many times we were stared at and even people coming up to us and telling us we were hurting him. He was never hit, just redirected to focus on my husband talking to him. Of course my husband told the lady to mind her own business(while her own kid ran around the store knocking things over). I was always the one afraid to do anything in public. I have friends that have only swatted their kid on the behind lightly(seriously…very lightly through a diaper when the kid is 3 yrs old). One had child protective services pay a visit. A stranger had taken down her license plate number and called anonymously. It is CRAZY!!!!!!!! Of course they found nothing, but they have to investigate every call. Some people should just mind their own business. Now, if I saw someone beating their child, not just disciplining him or her I would definitely do something. There IS a difference between beating and discipline. Not all methods work for all children. My kids laughed at time outs. Especially my daughter. I had to take things away from her to get my point across. My son has a whole slew of medical reasons for his behavior that we deal with completely differently. I don’t think swatting your child on the behind(as opposed to beating them or punching them) is going to damage them.

- tink1217 on September 19th, 2007

People.com is reporting that Britney spent last night partying and drinking. Well isn’t that just typical. The judge is generous enough to give her a second chance to get her act together and instead of trying to pull herself together she instead goes out drinking and dancing on tables. It’s beyond me how anyone can defend her at this point.

- Kate on September 19th, 2007

Lola,
I don’t think this ruling shows anything about the reports in the press but that many of them (ie: Britney’s drug, alcohol and depression problems) are 100% true. To say that it was a lot of “hot air” from Kevin’s side is sad. We need to keep in mind that we’ve heard very little from Kevin and nothing negative about Britney other than that he’s been afraid for his children (the press has made the speculations as to why). Even his lawyer has said he won’t speak negative about Britney other than to say that Kevin feared for his children. He hasn’t been bashing her and frankly considering the circumstances I think he has been very fair.

Kevin was never seeking 100% custody (only the 70/30) and no where has it been said he was asking for more child support so to claim it was all about money is really not fair either. He and his attorney are both “grateful” for the way things went. If it were all about money then don’t you think Kevin would have appealed that ruling the second he stepped out of court? Now that it’s been shown in a court of law that Britney does those things, he may easily be able to convince another judge she’s not a good mother.

The reason I think the ruling is fair is that the court system never WANTS to remove children from the custody of their parent(s). They typically try what they can first and they do give chances. I’m not at all surprised that they are giving Britney a chance to get her life in order. Do I think it will work… only time will tell. It’s also pretty normal for them to ask that Kevin follow some of the rules to. In normal circumstances there’s nothing wrong with having A drink around your children… many people do. But you can’t say that one parent can’t drink in the presence of the children and not include the other in that. I don’t think they’re saying Kevin is a bad father at all, but they don’t want to allow him to drink if they’re not allowing Britney to.

As for the corporal punishment ruling. That’s actually pretty standard in custody disputes where abuse (physical/mental or neglect) is brought in. It doesn’t necessarily mean anything at all has been happening to Sean or Jayden.

- Rachel on September 19th, 2007

Rachel, I agree mostly, but what you don’t realize is that the more custody Kevin gets…the more money he will get. It is just that way in the eyes of the law. That is why I had pondered the thought that since his spousal support is ending in November (or was supposed to) that the only way he could continue getting money was to go after the kids and more custody. I still think he is a money hungry player.

Oh and whomever said Brit was out partying last night…nobody said she was drinking. It IS possible to go out to a club and NOT drink. I have done it. And, its probably Kevin’s time with the kids. At least she was wearing decent clothing and not showing her nether regions!!! That HAS to be a step in the right direction.

What amazes me is the negativity. I will continue to HOPE Brit does the right thing. One can still hope for this to work out. If it does…great, if it doesn’t and she proves through alcohol and drug testing that she is screwed up or addicted…then the case needs to be reevaluated, of course. Is Kevin the best parent…NOT in my opinion. He drinks, he smokes pot…yet he doesn’t have to submit to any testing. I think that is ridiculous. Especially since he is admittedly a pot smoker and has been outted by Shar even, for smoking pot.

At this point in time…NEITHER of them is really a great parent.

- tink1217 on September 19th, 2007

tink: Actually People.com has reported that she was drinking and dancing on tables. And while I see nothing wrong with a parent going out occasionally, this is not the appropriate time. This is the time when Britney should be at home, focusing on getting her life together for the sake of her children, the fact that she can’t even do that on the day of the custody ruling says a lot about her and none of it is good.

- Kate on September 19th, 2007

I agree Kate. I don’t think she will make it.I hope she proves me wrong…

- Renee on September 19th, 2007

Agreed, Kate. As someone already posted, this ruling-which was VERY fair of the judge, imo-will truly prove Britney’s priorities, and the fact that she chose to be out drinking and partying it up on the night of the ruling says all anyone needs to know. I hope I am proved wrong, but right now, I am predicting that in the near future, she is going to lose those boys and she will have no one to blame but herself. As daphneesmith said, there are plenty of wonderful mothers out there struggling to simply get by, so I’m not going to waste any sympathy on a spoiled little brat with all the resources in the world who chooses to throw away her life. I feel for her sons, but she brought her problems on herself.

- Lauren on September 19th, 2007

Tink –
I will admit that I feel Kevin should have random drug testing too, especially since he’s admitted to smoking pot (though friends/family and he all say he’s never done so around the children).

I think the reason that Kevin isn’t having to do drug testing is probably pretty simple though. If Kevin’s pot smoking was never brought up in court, where the focus seemed to be on Britney, then there would be no real reason for the judge to be concerned. I’m betting that Britney’s attorneys (who I believe have all quit) didn’t feel it was that big of an issue or they would have addressed it during the hearing. They may also have needed some proof too… I’m not really sure how that works.

I do agree that neither of them is the best parent in the world. But again, the court is highly unlikely to take custody away from both of them and that would be really sad. I won’t say that Kevin is not doing it for money at all because I don’t know his motives (none of us do), but he’s working fulltime and at least trying.

I HOPE too… for both of them. That Kevin’s head and heart are in the right place and that Britney gets there really soon. To see those two precious children in the midst of all of this just breaks my heart. I hope the headlines next year (or even next month) are much different and much more positive for this entire family.

- Rachel on September 19th, 2007

Britney will not change. She was out partying a day later.

- lola on September 20th, 2007

people.com says britney was out partying with friend allie sims & avril la vigne

http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20057702,00.html

- ang on September 20th, 2007

Danielle and Sarah etc?
I cant get into my email today so Im posting this here…

Brits custody rules about NUDITY have NOTHING to do with her being nude IN FRONT OF THE KIDS, but IN FRONT OF THE HIRED HELP!
SEVERAL Nannies that she interviewed said Britney went nude in front of THEM and NEVER asked them about their qualifications…

This backs that up:

Britney’s Nanny Tell-All!

Sources say Britney Spears relies too heavily on nannies to help care for her two sons, Sean, 17 months, and Jayden, 5 months.

When Spears is alone with her kids, “she gets over-whelmed,” says a source. “She gets so frustrated when they cry, asking, ‘How do I make it stop?’ But she loves her kids.”

So you’re thinking of applying for a nanny job with Britney? First read what one job candidate claims were the job requirements when she applied to be Spears’ nanny last year.

Personal Over Professional

“Britney didn’t ask me one thing about my child-care experience. She only wanted to know about my personal life.”

Friend Wanted

“The agency that called me emphasized that Britney was looking for a nanny who was young and hip because they wanted her to interact with people her own age. Basically, Britney wanted a friend.”

Must Like Naked Bosses

“Britney asked me and one of her nannies to come to her room to watch her try on outfits for a party one night – then she stripped down naked in front of us!”

Must Act As Surrogate Mom

“One nanny told me that Britney will hold her kids for 10 minutes and then say, ‘I’m done now. You can take them.’”

Don’t Be Too Good

“She doesn’t like when Sean prefers the nanny, so she fires them and looks for a new one.”

Britney: I shaved my head because of lice

Britney Spears was back in rehab after months of bizarre behaviour which culminated in her shaving off all her hair.

A source for the 25-year-old singer claimed she shaved her head because of lice: “She thought lice were eating her hair extensions, so decided to get rid of them as soon as possible.”

http://www.usmagazine.com/britney_spears_cover_story

- preesi on September 20th, 2007

Lola- What a mean thing to say! None of us know for sure whether or not Britney will change. Personally, I am guessing that the reason she has been partying in the days after the custody ruling is to “get it out of her system” before she starts cleaning up her act. After all, the rules did say that she and Kevin both have to decide on therapists by “week’s end”. That means that she still has until tomorrow, Friday, to chose one, and likely won’t have to have her first session until next week.

Anyway, think of it this way: Britney knows that if she doesn’t follow the judge’s orders, the judge will TAKE HER BOYS AWAY from her. Do you honestly think she wants that? Don’t you think she loves those boys and wants to keep them?

Personally, I am rooting for Britney! You can do it Brit, I know you can!

- Annoyomus on September 20th, 2007

annoymous: I think it’s a very poor excuse to say that maybe she’s just “getting it out of her system” – if she really cares about retaining custody of her children then that should be more important to her than one last partying session. Britney has made it clear what her priorities are: partying first, children last.

- Kate on September 21st, 2007

I just went to JustJared and saw some pictures of Sean in his car seat, and again she’s not using the car seat correctly (the shoulder straps are not tight enough). I really, really hope that the first thing the parenting coach addresses with her is the proper way to use a car seat because she clearly doesn’t know how to use them the right way.

- Kate on September 21st, 2007

Every mother in the world should have their children in their lives but when and if a mother does something like this as Brittany Spears has done… just have solid faith in her and she has to have faith in her self to get help. Brit is not a bad mother she just needs help and help from a doctor, and a good one who has parenting skills and this also goes to the ex- husband… he does not need to get off easley either… it’s his responsibility to help out also and not put the blame on Brit, they both have kids together then ” ACT LIKE PARENTS “.

- Jodi F on September 21st, 2007

Jodi F- I couldn’t have said it better myself! Although I am a Britney defender, I will admit that she definently does have issues and that she definently needs that parenting coach to give her a few lessons in parenting. I also agree with what Jodi F said about K-Fed. Let’s face it, he’s not exactly an angel either. We may THINK he’s the better parent, but like some commenters have pointed out, he just seems to be a lot better at hiding his issues.

Shar has confirmed that Kevin smokes pot on a regular basis, and I know he has been seen out partying and drinking in Vegas (and possibly other places) as well. Also, have we forgotten all the times he was out partying after the births of Sean and Jayden?

All of that said, just as I don’t think Brit is a bad mother, I don’t think that K-Fed is neccesarily a bad father. I am just saying that he definently has issues as well, and I am tired of people acting like he’s parent of the year or something (I apologize in advance if I sound like I’m putting words in people’s mouthes. All I am doing is stating my opinion.).

Like I have said before, I am really rooting for Britney! I really do think she loves those boys, and while partying may be a higher priorty for her than the boys right now, I think that’s mostly due to her problems and mental state right now, not because she doesn’t love those cute little boys! Anyway, I’m rootin’ for ya’, Brit!

- Annoyomus on September 21st, 2007

I wonder what kind of drugs Britney is doing? Coke? You would thing that if she was doing Meth or Coke she’d be Nicole Richie thin. We all know Kevin is a big pot smoker, so why doesn’t he have to get tested?

Unfortunately, unless a miracle happens, a few “rules” won’t stop an addict until after he/she loses everything first. I give her a month before she slips up for good and Kevin gets those kids permanently.

Doesn’t she see what she’s about to lose???

- Jill on September 22nd, 2007

Brit, YOU CAN GET THROUGH THIS! I realize it must be very hard and your through a rough time now, your marriage fell apart and your a young mother of two little boys. It will get better, just keep the faith and just remember that GOD will not put nothing on your shoulders you can’t handle. This is a learning tool and a stepping stone. Get through this ok for yourself. No one else but you and your boys! Your X is trying to to distroy you! Don’t let him find the strength from the Lord and pray on this, you’ll get through it. My prayers are with you! You’ll be alright!

- Molly Stubblefield on September 22nd, 2007

“I really do think she loves those boys, and while partying may be a higher priorty for her than the boys right now, I think that’s mostly due to her problems and mental state right now, not because she doesn’t love those cute little boys!”

So you believe that a mother who prioritizes partying over her two babies and is clearly mentally disturbed shouldn’t have her kids handed over to their father while she seeks help because the fact that she loves them is more important than the fact that their best interests are not her top priority?

- Lauren on September 23rd, 2007

Lauren- What I believe in is not judging a mother for something that I’m not even sure is true. We have absolutly no way of knowing for sure whether or not partying is a higher priorty to Brit than her boys. I said that it MIGHT be, with MIGHT being the key word.

I can also see at least one good thing about the 50/50 custody arrangement being left in place for now: The parenting coach that will be working with Britney will actually be able to see Britney’s parenting skills for herself or himself. If Brit didn’t have the boys, the coach would be unable to see her parenting skills, and therefore less likely to be able to help her improve them.

That said, to be honest, no way do I believe that Kevin should be given even temporary full custody of the boys right now. I am one of the few people who actually thinks that he is NOT neccesarily the better parent. I mean, the guy was out partying his a** off right after the births of his sons! Besides that, he smokes pot on a regular basis (from what I’ve heard, he was even outed by Shar Jackson for this!), he drinks (as at least one other poster has stated, he has even admitted that he likes to drink when he’s with the boys!), and he has even been seen out partying in Vegas recently (as well as possibly a few other places).

Also, he obviously has a few other issues as well, otherwise the courts wouldn’t be doing any of the following:

-Requiring that he, like Brit, doesn’t drink or consume any non-prescription controlled substances 12 hours prior to getting the boys.

-Requiring that he go to joint co-parenting counseling with Brit.

-Requiring that he, like Brit, take a “Parenting Without Conflict” class.

-Forbidding him from using corporal punishment on the boys (although I realize that, like several previous posters have stated, this may very well have been just a routinue, precautionary measure).

All of that said, as I have stated before, I do NOT think that K-Fed is neccesarily a horrible father (just as I don’t believe that Brit is a horrible mother). I just believe that he, like Brit, has some issues he needs to work on. In fact, when he and Brit first split up and the “Will Brit lose her boys?” rumors began, my first thoughts were: “Heaven forbid that Kevin get full custody of those boys!”

As another poster has said, the truth is that NEITHER Britney nor Kevin is a model parent right now, and they BOTH need some help.

If, for some reason, the courts decide that the boys should be taken from Brit, I think that her parents should get temporary custody of them.

- Annoyomus on September 24th, 2007

I think that a lot of people are letting their dislike of Kevin cloud their judgment when it comes to Britney’s parenting. Even after the judge has found that she has a substance problem and is requiring her to take parenting counseling/work with a Parenting Coach none of which Kevin is required to do, there are those who will say Kevin is a not a great father, he has issues, he drinks etc. The difference between Kevin going out and partying and Britney is that Britney has a drug/alcohol problem at the moment and Kevin at least according to the court does not. Someone who has a problem with drugs/alcohol should not be out partying at clubs where those elements are in abundance.
In regards to Shar’s comments about Kevin smoking pot. The question you have to ask yourself is: is Kevin abusing drugs right now? Not two or three years ago,but right now. If he is not, then the fact that he used to smoke or sell pot for that matter is not that important. The thing about Britney is that her substance abuse problems are not in the past they are continuing right now which is a huge problem.
Lastly everyone is making a big deal about the fact that the court gave Kevin a list of things he cannot do and are using it as evidence to show he is not a good father. As Kevin’s attorney explained on the Today show last Friday, the things the court are requesting Kevin to do and to refrain from are things that any parent going through a contested custody battle would be asked to do e.g., don’t say anything disparing about the mother, don’t take the kids out of state w/o the other parent’s permission. On the other hand, the things Britney is required to do are out of the ordinary. Is Britney the worst mother in the world, of course not but it appears that as of right now, Kevin the better of the parent of the two which is why he does not have to work with a parenting coach for eight hours a week or submit to random drug tests.

- Di on September 24th, 2007

i am only 2 years older then britney and i am ashamed she makes younger mothers look like idiots. one i dont drink do drugs or even date i see to many stories of abuse that i rather not even risk my sons health and life to date someone who might not be able to handle children and what babies do so britney should be a mother to those boys first they are beautiful and hopefully they can have a great future if they get the love and caring for they should have and quit the bull s if not for your sake for the boys sake .i wish the best for them both

- regina on September 24th, 2007

I am going to make a prediction: Britney will fail on all counts, and when called to answer for her actions, or lack thereof, she’ll cry, whine, and threaten suicide, ’cause she only wants to be a mom, y’all. The state will cut her some slack due to her celebrity status, and eventually those poor little kids will be permanently damaged either physically or emotionally (or both).

At least Kevin has the support of both sets of grandparents.

- MizLiz on September 25th, 2007

Wow, poor Britney. People need to lay off this girl. She has her problems, sure, like everyone else, except that her problems are put on tv and in magazines. We don’t see any of the good things she is doing because no one takes pictures of that or writes about that because it doesn’t sell! I would like to read and see the GOOD Britney is doing for her children, not the bad. She can’t be that bad of a mom or a person.
Before Britney met Kevin she was MUCH better off and doing so much better in her life. She should have left him in the back row as her back up dancer, if she did do this, she would be alright right now.

- Meagan Jeffrey on September 26th, 2007

That would suck to loose ur kids.Get it together trick. Drugs aren’t that great!

- Shelo on October 2nd, 2007