Things are not looking good for Prince Andrew amid court's decision to go forward with sex abuse trial.
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A lack of communication and engagement
Reportedly, the Duke of York might be looking into changing his legal team after the widespread public backlash he's received throughout the development of the civil case brought against him. Sources close to the royal have said that the prince has become increasingly dissatisfied with the lack of 'communication and engagement' from his lawyers.
Fears that the reputation of the monarchy might forever be tarnished have prompted rumours to emerge that he will fire his entire legal team if action isn't taken to reverse the situation. However, one senior figure believes that:
It’s unlikely he’s about to change his entire legal team at this late stage but there are definitely concerns over strategy. There have been a number of exchanges. Everyone is aware of the other’s viewpoint.
Advised to remain silent
Thus far in the trial, it seems as though the only strategic course of action taken by his lawyers is to remain silent on all matters, likely due to the painfully self-sabotaging interview conducted by BBC news. At the advice of his legal team, he has refused to address the US court by trying to use technicalities to prove that papers had not been served properly only to be told by the judge, 'let’s cut out all the technicalities and get to the substance'. A source close to the duke said:
The decision not to put out any kind of statement, even just to reiterate his denial of the allegations, has seen his reputation shredded in the court of public opinion.
The next court hearing is set to take place on 13 October.
