BANGSHOWBIZ:

Britney Spears is "crying out for help".

The Circus singer is desperately trying to escape from her controlling father, her former attorney's lawyer told a Los Angeles court on Tuesday.

Jamie Spears - who took legal control of his troubled daughter's personal and professional affairs last year - is trying to obtain permanent restraining orders against the singer's former manager, Sam Lutfi, attorney Jon Eardley and lover, Adnan Ghalib.

Eardley's lawyer, Roger Diamond, wants Spears to testify in court because he believes she is being held prisoner by her father.

He said: "Britney Spears is crying out for help."

The 27-year-old singer's legal team refutes the claims, calling the men "predators" who have "patently threatened and continually harassed" Spears.

The temporary restraining orders against all three men were extended until April 28, when the judge will hear rebuttal arguments before making a final decision.

Spears is currently performing in The Circus Starring Britney Spears, her first concert tour in five years.