Prince William Appoints Mishcon de Reya, the Same Firm That Represented Princess Diana

In a move that marks a significant shift from royal precedent, Prince William has appointed Mishcon de Reya, the law firm that represented his late mother Princess Diana during her 1996 divorce from King Charles III, to handle his legal affairs.

This decision ends his long-standing legal relationship with Harbottle & Lewis, the firm traditionally used by the royal family, and more specifically by King Charles himself. The Prince’s move has raised eyebrows within royal circles and is being seen as an effort to establish his own independent path as the future king.

A Break from His Father’s Legal Team

For decades, Harbottle & Lewis—notably media law specialist Gerrard Tyrrell—has represented the British royal family in numerous high-profile legal matters. The firm notably advised the royals during the 2006 News of the World phone hacking scandal, in which both Prince William and Prince Harry were targeted. Tyrrell, regarded as one of King Charles’s most trusted legal advisors, reportedly had a long-standing relationship with the family.

However, according to Richard Eden of the Daily Mail, Prince William “wanted to strike out on his own” and no longer wishes to rely on his father’s legal team. His decision to part ways with Harbottle & Lewis is believed to have caused disappointment within the firm, especially considering their extensive history with the monarchy.

Mishcon de Reya and Anthony Julius: A Royal Connection

Mishcon de Reya is no stranger to royal affairs. Its deputy chairman, Anthony Julius, was the lawyer who represented Princess Diana during her high-profile and emotionally charged divorce proceedings in the mid-1990s. His appointment by William has sparked public and media interest, given the symbolic connection to Diana.

By bringing Julius and his firm on board, Prince William is not only asserting his independence but also potentially honoring his mother’s memory and her trust in the firm.

Context: The Divorce of Diana and Charles

Princess Diana and Prince Charles were married in 1981 but began living separate lives by the early 1990s. Their separation was formally announced in December 1992 by then-Prime Minister John Major, who stated in the House of Commons:

“This decision has been reached amicably and they will both continue to participate fully in the upbringing of their children.”

The couple officially divorced in 1996, following a statement from Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, who supported the move. The Queen expressed her view that a divorce would be in the best interests of all parties involved, especially the children—Prince William and Prince Harry.

A New Era for Prince William

While it’s unclear what specific legal matters Mishcon de Reya will manage for the Prince of Wales, his decision has been widely interpreted as part of a broader effort to shape his public and private life on his own terms, distinct from the legacy of his father, King Charles.

By choosing the same firm that stood beside his mother during one of her most challenging times, Prince William appears to be both embracing change and making a subtle yet powerful statement about independence, legacy, and loyalty.