Washington, Dec 31(ANI): Aspirant rapper Kevin Federline's lawyer Mark Vincent Kaplan has hinted that he is set to move forward with his client's custody battle, saying that pop diva Britney Spears may have her deposition in the case early next year.

Spears had missed her initial deposition appearance on December 12, citing physical illness and anxiety as the reasons.

Kaplan dismissed Britney's reasons as mere excuses, saying that she was rather out the whole day and night.

"Kevin isn't interested, nor am I, in punishing her. We just want to get information necessary to proceed further. I am hoping remedies which include continuing hearings are all theoretical." People quoted Kaplan as saying.

He also slammed the tabloid rumours that the couple's kids-Preston, 2, and Jayden, 1-would undergo drug testing.

"I haven't even heard about that, and I don't think that is true. In fact, the boys have been enjoying a wonderful holiday season. It was a good Christmas for all," he said

"They were great. Kevin had all of his kids and it was a big, wonderful family setting. He was really happy, and the kids were happy," he added.

The attorney also expressed hope that Britney would appear the next time she is called for her deposition. (ANI)