Britney Spears has spent $2.7 million in lawyers' fees in the past 11 months.

The "Circus" singer - who has managed to turn her life around following her public meltdown early last year - was forced to pay $417,000 to legally end her two-year marriage to Kevin Federline and the subsequent custody battle over their two children, Sean Preston, three, and two-year-old Jayden James.

Fees were also paid to 17 lawyers and firms, including $1 million for Britney's own attorneys.

Lawyer Geraldine Wyle - who represents Britney's father Jamie, who is legally in control of his daughter's estate - said: "Since the initiation of the conservatorship, as a result of the concerted efforts of Mr. Spears as well as the professionals involved, all aspects of Ms. Spears' life have been stabilised and continue to improve."

According to Wyle, Britney - who was twice held in a psychiatric ward before her father was put in control - faces "complex and challenging issues" which have run up huge costs.

However, she admitted the mother-of-two's mental health had improved over the last year and has won "substantial visitation" with her sons and her career "has been revitalised". Britney is currently on a sold-out world tour and has been honoured with a plaque to commemorate the huge success of her latest album "Circus".

(China Daily/Agencies, March 26, 2009)