The Crown’s private estates, including Sandringham and Balmoral, also operate under specific legal conventions. Police entry typically requires permission, reflecting the monarch’s legal status rather than personal privilege.
There are also long observed protocols governing arrests within royal residences or in the presence of the monarch. These practices exist largely for constitutional and security reasons.
Royals who remain subject to the law
Other members of the Royal Family do not share sovereign immunity.
Senior royals, including Prince William, Catherine Princess of Wales, and Princess Anne, are legally treated like other citizens.
History offers clear examples. Princess Anne was prosecuted and fined following a dog related incident. She also received a speeding penalty. Prince Philip was not charged after a traffic collision, a decision based on circumstances rather than legal protection.
In practical terms, any royal other than the monarch can be investigated, arrested, and prosecuted if authorities believe an offence has occurred.
Previous controversies
Andrew Mountbatten Windsor has previously faced serious allegations, which he has consistently denied. These claims are not connected to the present arrest.
He reached a civil settlement with Virginia Giuffre in 2022. Reports placed the payment at approximately £12 million. Giuffre died in April 2025.
As with all active cases, legal guidance stresses caution regarding public commentary.
