Chris Brown wants Rihanna restraining order modified

Chris Brown wants his restraining order against Rihanna lifted.

The 21-year-old singer - who was sentenced to five years probation and six months of community service for assaulting the 'Umbrella' hitmaker in 2009 - has asked for the removal or the order, which doesn't allow him within 100 yards of her, so he can attend award ceremonies.

His lawyer Mark Geragos asked Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Patricia Snegg in a hearing yesterday (28.01.11) to lift the order following his successful completion of 52 weeks of domestic violence therapy, because it was tough for Chris to attend music industry events.

He said: "It makes it difficult at awards shows and such."

Judge Schnegg did not immediately grant the request, but praised the 'I Can Transform Ya' hitmaker's hard work and "consistent" approach to his punishment.

She said: "Out of thousands of probationers, no one has done a better or more consistent job than you have, and I really want to commend you for taking responsibility and actually working diligently to complete all the things the court has required of you."

She suggested a modification to the current order with the approval of Rihanna'a lawyer David Etra.

He said he would speak to the Barbados-born singer on her feelings about the change, and any decision would be filed in the court at a later date.

Chris has completed 581 hours of community service, but remains on probation.