Britney Spears pleaded guilty on Monday to a charge of reckless driving in a Southern California courtroom. The 44-year-old pop star had been arrested in March and accused of driving while under the combined influence of alcohol and at least one drug.
Spears did not appear in the Ventura County court for the proceedings, as her lawyer appeared on her behalf. Because she faced a misdemeanor charge, she was not required to attend, and her absence will not count against her.
As part of a plea deal for the lesser charge, Spears will avoid jail time. The agreement requires her to serve 12 months of probation, complete a three-month substance abuse program, and pay a modest fine.