Prince Harry's Legal Battle against the Tabloids: Expected Verdict Against "Mirror" Publisher
After six months of legal proceedings, it's time to hear the verdict: Prince Harry and other celebrities' damages claim against the "Mirror" publishing house is expected to conclude today in London's High Court.
The 39-year-old royal prince is accusing journalists from "Daily Mirror," "Sunday Mirror," and "People" of using illegal means to spy on him—including intercepting his phone calls and employing private detectives. His contention is that such methods were the source of intimate information published about him, including visits to strip clubs, sports injuries, and end-of-relationship details.
Harry's testimony in the June trial caused a stir, making him the first British royal to take the stand in 130 years and enduring two days of cross-examination. He described the alleged spying as a source of severe emotional distress, straining friendships and relationships, and causing him significant distress.
The publisher's lawyer Andrew Green countered that the reporting was based on legally obtained information, with sources often either publicly available or private leaks. However, the burden of proof fell on Harry and his co-plaintiffs, although it's less stringent in civil proceedings than in criminal cases.
The widespread use of illegal methods by British newspapers during this period, including MGN papers, is a common knowledge. Nevertheless, Prince Harry is concerned about more than just his personal experiences, perceiving the British tabloids like a plague. He believes that the unfortunate demise of his mother, Princess Diana, in 1997, was partly due to the paparazzi's intrusion and fearfully anticipates history repeating itself with his wife Meghan.
Prince Harry, now residing in the U.S. with his family, is leading a crusade against the tabloid press. He's engaged in several other lawsuits against publishers such as News Group Newspapers (The Sun) and Associated Newspapers (Daily Mail) for allegedly illegally obtaining information. This forthcoming verdict against The Mirror Group is set to serve as a first indication of his mission's success.
Relevant Insights:
- According to enrichment data, a settlement between Prince Harry and Mirror Group Newspapers (now known as Reach Plc) was reached. The agreement included an initial payment of £400,000 ($504,000), legal charges, and the initial £140,600 fine awarded to Harry in December 2021. The judge concluded that the Mirror Group illegally obtained information, such as phone hacking and intercepting Harry's voicemails[2][3].
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