VENTURA, Calif. — A defense lawyer for Britney Spears appeared on her behalf in front of a California judge Monday and pleaded guilty to a lesser charge stemming from her arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence.
Spears admitted to a vehicle code violation known in California as a "wet reckless" and was sentenced to 12 months' probation and one day of jail, credited as time served, by Ventura County Court Commissioner Matthew Nemerson.
Spears, 44, the Grammy-winning singer of "Toxic," was pulled over on March 4 in Westlake Village, just over the line between Ventura and Los Angeles counties, on suspicion of driving under the influence, though authorities have not yet disclosed what substance she might have been using.
She has also been ordered to meet with a psychologist once a week and a psychiatrist twice a month. She also consented to her car's being searched for any alcohol or drugs.
Facing a possible misdemeanor DUI, Spears was not required to be in court, and she was allowed to have her attorney speak on her behalf.
The judge reminded defense lawyer Michael Goldstein that, even though Spears is guilty of only a vehicle code violation, any DUI conviction in the next 10 years will count as her second such offense.
“Through her plea today, Britney has accepted responsibility for her conduct," Goldstein said in a statement.
"She has taken significant steps to implement positive change which is clearly reflected in the Ventura County District Attorney’s decision to reduce the charge in this case and dismiss the DUI. Britney appreciates this discretion and is also grateful for the outpouring of support she has received.”
Spears has since checked into a treatment facility after several people close to her encouraged her to do so, a source familiar with the situation told NBC News.
Ahead of her Monday court appearance, Spears posted a picture and a video clip to her Instagram account Sunday.
The picture was of about four dozen floral design teacups, and the video showed her dancing in a short sparkling dress.
Sossy Dombourian reported from Ventura and David K. Li from New York City.
