Royal Couple Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Face Legal Custody Restrictions Over Newborn Son

In a surprising turn of events, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, the royal couple, are unable to exercise full legal custody over their newly born son.

The arrival of their baby boy, named Master Archie Harrison-Mountbatten, on May 6th brought joy to the family.

Recent revelations have brought to light the legal constraints that prevent Meghan Markle and Prince Harry from obtaining complete legal guardianship of their child.

Under an age-old law dating back three centuries, parents within the royal lineage do not hold absolute legal custody rights over their offspring.

Instead, this law designates the queen as the legal guardian of royal children.

Renowned royal expert Marlene Koenig disclosed this information, citing the enactment of “The Grand Opinion for the Prerogative Concerning the Royal Family” by King George I in 1717.

Koenig shared insights on the historical context, stating that the law originated from a dispute between George I and his son, the future George II, regarding the selection of a godparent for George II's son, leading to parliamentary intervention to establish regulations.

An official document published in 1772 elaborates on the legal judgment, emphasizing the endorsement of the King's authority in overseeing the upbringing and education of royal offspring.

This ruling extends to the care of the royal children, grandchildren, and heirs to the throne, solidifying the monarch's role in their welfare.

The same legal provision previously impacted Princess Diana's ability to relocate her sons, William and Harry, to Australia following her separation from Prince Charles, the Prince of Wales.

Consequently, the Queen retains full legal custody of her great-grandchildren, including the descendants of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Addressing potential concerns regarding the Queen's involvement in childcare matters, Koenig expressed confidence that such interference would be minimal, considering the more ceremonial nature of the arrangement.

She highlighted the Queen's approach in allowing her children to raise their offspring autonomously, indicating a hands-off approach to parenting within the royal family.