FOXNEWS:  Brittney Spears' parents seek to prevent her from testifying in court.  Although the article acknowledges Britney's improvement, it illustrates the significant restraints a conservatorship can place on one's life.  Brittney's father has complete control over Britney's financial assets, and he can even prevent her from marrying her boyfriend.  Estate of Denial has a good synopsis on the effects a conservatorship can have on one's life:

“Though the term conservatorship or guardianship can conjure an image of a nurturing, protective relationship, the status typically means that the conserved person (or ward) loses basic rights, such as the ability to sign contracts, vote, marry or divorce, buy or sell real estate, or make decisions about medical procedures.”