Some speculated that the Duke of Sussex purposely avoided the trial on Monday in order to seek further legal advice and guidance from his trusted advisors before making any statements in the witness box. This theory suggests that he wanted to ensure his statements were well-prepared and strategized.
On the other hand, there were those who believed that Harry's absence was a deliberate move to provoke his royal relatives. Concerns were raised by experts who feared that the Duke might involve his family members in the legal battle through his statements, potentially dragging them into the courtroom drama.
However, Harry's attorney, David Sherborne, clarified the situation in court. He informed the judge that the Duke would not be taking the stand until Tuesday because he had been celebrating his daughter Princess Lilibet's second birthday. According to Sherborne, Harry had flown to the UK late on Sunday, which explained his absence on Monday.
During the proceedings, Harry's lawyer emphasized that his client had been a target of illegal information gathering since his early school days. He argued that stories about the prince had always been a lucrative subject for tabloids, even when Harry was just 11 years old.
Outside the High Court in London, a significant number of photographers and camera crews eagerly awaited Harry's arrival for the opening speeches of the case. However, to their surprise, the Duke skipped the hearing, frustrating Judge Timothy Fancourt with his absence.
This legal battle is notable because it marks the first time in over a century that a senior member of the British royal family will provide evidence in court. Prince Harry is scheduled to testify this week against Mirror Group Newspapers, making this a groundbreaking event in royal and legal history.
