Duke of Sussex ordered to cover most of government’s costs after failed High Court appeal
Harry’s bid to reinstate full police protection in the UK has ended in a costly setback — with a hefty legal bill now looming.
The Duke of Sussex “comprehensively lost” his High Court case last year, and his subsequent appeal was dismissed in May. Now, as the losing party, he is expected to pay up to 90% of the UK government’s legal fees — a sum already reaching £656,324, including £554,000 from the original trial and an additional £102,000 from the appeal.
The government’s legal bill includes more than £241,000 in barristers’ fees and £394,000 for solicitors. Harry’s own legal costs have not been disclosed but are believed to be substantial, with estimates suggesting his total legal expenses could approach £1.5 million.
The Duke flew in from California to personally attend the April hearing. His legal team argued that removing armed police protection endangered his life, citing his military background and global profile.
Following the failed appeal, Harry admitted to the BBC: “I wish someone had told me beforehand” there was “no way to win.” He described the case as “the one that mattered the most” among his various legal battles.
In the court’s ruling, Sir Geoffrey Vos said Harry’s argument was “powerful and moving” but concluded that his “sense of grievance” did not amount to a valid legal claim.
