Britney Spears is facing fresh legal trouble after being charged in a drunk driving case in California.
The development comes weeks after her arrest and subsequent entry into a rehabilitation facility.
A court hearing is now set for early May.
According to US media reports, the Ventura County District Attorney's Office filed a misdemeanor charge against Britney Spears on April 30.
Prosecutors allege that the singer was driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs in Southern California.
Court appearance scheduled
Spears is scheduled to appear in Ventura County Superior Court on May 4.
However, since the case is considered low-level, reports suggest her lawyers may appear on her behalf, meaning her personal attendance may not be required.
Possible legal outcome
Prosecutors indicated that Spears could be offered a chance to plead guilty to a lesser charge of reckless driving involving alcohol or drugs.
This is a common resolution for individuals with no prior DUI record, low blood alcohol levels, and no history of accidents or fatalities.
If accepted, the singer could face 12 months of probation, mandatory DUI classes, and state fines.
Details of the arrest
Spears was arrested on March 4 by the California Highway Patrol.
Authorities reported that her black BMW was seen speeding and driving erratically on a Ventura County highway.
Officers noted signs of intoxication and conducted a field sobriety test before taking her into custody.
On April 12, Spears’ representative confirmed that the 44-year-old singer had voluntarily entered a rehabilitation center.
Her spokesperson described the arrest as “sad and unacceptable,” adding that it could mark an important step toward positive change.
In 2007, Spears faced misdemeanor charges related to a hit-and-run and driving without a valid license.
She was also hospitalised that year for undisclosed mental health issues.
The singer remained under a conservatorship for 13 years, which controlled her personal and financial decisions, until a judge ended the arrangement in 2021 following the widely supported “Free Britney” movement.
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