Prince Harry and six others face massive legal bill after losing phone-hacking case against Daily Mail

Published Aug 20, 04:10 PM UTC

Prince Harry and six other high-profile claimants, including Sir Elton John and Liz Hurley, face a substantial legal costs bill after losing a phone-hacking case against Associated Newspapers, publisher of the Daily Mail. The costs are set to be decided on Friday. The group's claims of illegal information gathering and phone hacking were dismissed in July after an 11-week trial. The publisher's legal costs are estimated at over £34 million, with insurance covering £16.2 million, leaving a potential shortfall. A costs law consultant noted the publisher will likely pursue Prince Harry for payment. The judge will decide whether costs are awarded on a standard or indemnity basis, the latter requiring proof of unreasonable conduct by the claimants.