An LA judge has delayed the sentencing of Chris Brown on an assault charge by three weeks.

Judge Patricia Schnegg said she is allowing more time for authorities in Virginia to decide whether Brown can serve community labour, rather than community service in the state.

In June, the 20-year-old singer pleaded guilty to one count of assault against his former girlfriend, singer Rihanna.

The incident, which left the singer with facial injuries, took place hours before both stars were due to attend the Grammy Awards in February.

At a hearing last month, Brown's legal team entered a plea deal which recommended that the singer receive five years' probation and be ordered to undertake six months of community service.

Judge Patricia Schnegg also ordered Brown to stay a distance of at least 50 yards from Rihanna.

However, it has since emerged that Rihanna did not want Brown to receive the stay away order.

Her lawyer Donald Etra told Entertainment Weekly the singer did not feel the stay away order “was necessary”.

Brown has since apologised over the assault, saying her was “very sad” and “very ashamed” of his "inexcusable" actions.

The singer's sentencing will now take place on August 27.

(by Jason Gregory)