Archie of Sussex: Legal Standing and Title in the Absence of Charles as King

In the intricate world of British royal succession, the legal standing and titles of individuals such as Archie of Sussex, the son of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, can become quite complex. This article aims to clarify what would happen to Archie if Charles, Prince of Wales, were never to become King, or if the Queen outlives him.

The Current Royal Titles System

Traditionally, the title of Prince or Princess is bestowed upon the children and grandchildren of the reigning monarch. Under the current rules, Prince Harry, being a son of King Charles III, would have made any of his children eligible for a royal title should Charles have become king. However, if Charles were never to ascend the throne, the story changes significantly for Archie and his potential for royal titles.

Without Charles as King

If Charles never becomes King, the question arises whether Archie would be automatically granted the title of Prince. Given the current rules, Archie would not automatically inherit the title since he is not a direct descendant of a reigning monarch. Instead, he would remain a commoner, unless his parents chose to bestow a title upon him. This decision, while historically significant, would be a choice made by his parents rather than an automatic right.

Potential Changes to the Rules

The rules surrounding royal titles might change in the future. The current system for royal titles is based on the 1917 Letters Patent, which was updated in 2012 by HM the Queen to include the children of the eldest son of the Prince of Wales. However, these Letters Patent need to be updated to reflect the change in the Succession to the Crown to absolute primogeniture, where the eldest child, regardless of gender, stands first in line to inherit the throne.

Stepdown by Prince Harry and Meghan

Another significant factor is the stepdown of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle from their royal duties. According to the official royal statement, Harry and Meghan decided not to grant their children royal titles, effectively removing the likelihood of Archie and his sister (Princess Lilibet) automatically receiving royal titles.

Living in the United States

Archie's residence in the United States also plays a role in the decision. Given the concept of nobility and titles often being linked to service and duty within the United Kingdom, it is understandable why his parents might consider it less significant for Archie to hold a royal title if he is permanently based in the US. However, this decision is ultimately personal and not influenced by nationality or race.

Legal Standing of Great-Grandchildren of the Monarch

Even if Charles eventually ascends to the throne, Archie would not automatically inherit a title merely because he is a great-grandchild of the monarch. Great-grandchildren of the monarch (with the exception of the children of the eldest son of the Prince of Wales) are generally untitled. This was established by the 1917 Letters Patent and amended by HM the Queen in 2012, but the documents still need updating to reflect the current method of succession.

Conclusion

In summary, Archie of Sussex would not automatically receive the title of Prince if Charles never becomes King. His parents have chosen to step down from their official royal duties, and Archie's residence in the United States also contributes to this decision. However, if the rules were to change, Archie might be eligible for a title based on his familial ties to the monarch. The current system, however, does not automatically grant him this status.

For those interested in understanding the complexities of royal titles and succession, it is clear that the system is evolving to reflect modern family structures and the changing nature of the monarchy.