A settlement has been reached in the lengthy custody dispute between former celebrity couple Britney Spears and Kevin Federline.  The battle, in which the world watched Britney basically deconstruct during its course, ends with the pop singer having to pay an additional $5,000 per month to ex-husband Federline.  This brings the total monthly child support payments that Britney sends over on a monthly basis to $20,000.  Spears also will cover the full legal expenses that her ex accrued during the course, which the media claims is around $250,000.

Britney's father, Jamie, who remains in control of her affairs until a court hearing that is scheduled on July 31, 2008, is the one who agreed to the terms from the Spear's camp.  The deal allows Federline to keep custody of the two children; 2.5 year old Preston, and 1.5 year old Jayden.  Britney will be allowed two visits and one overnight stay each week.  She will get an additional overnight by the end of the year barring any behavioral setbacks.

Britney lost custody of the children last year as her behavior became publicly erratic.  The singer was placed under psychiatric evaluation in a hospital following a breakdown/explosion.  In lieu of this, the courts granted her father control of Britney's estate.  Lawyers for both the singer and her father are due in court at the end of the month to consider if this arrangement is still needed.