Prince Andrew’s settlement with Giuffre discussed by expert

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Many outlets have described the out-of-court settlement in principle in the civil sexual assault case as having come ‘out of the blue’. But Nick Goldstone, Head of Dispute Resolution at law firm Ince, described the sudden settlement as “no surprise”.

Mr Goldstone highlighted the judge overseeing the case was pushing for the process to be moved forward swiftly.

He added the settlement’s sudden arrival will have been influenced by Prince Andrew being “confronted with the prospect of a trial”, after a ruling stating the civil case brought again him could proceed to this level.

The Duke of York was, Mr Goldstone stressed, in “no position to continue fighting”.

Much speculation has arisen over the cost of the settlement, which has not been disclosed.

Mr Goldstone told Express.co.uk the figure will certainly be “multiple millions”, and would “easily” be in double figures.

If the price had to pay up after facing a New York jury, this could have risen further to the triple-figure millions as the case was important “world news”.

The legal expert added that the settlement was not the only financial cost suffered by Prince Andrew in the case.

Andrew has also pledged to make a “substantial donation” to Ms Giuffre’s charity in support of victims’ rights.

READ MORE: Prince Andrew SETTLES civil sexual assault case with Virginia Giuffre

On top of this, it is likely he will have to cover all of his accuser’s court costs on an indemnity basis, although this has not been confirmed.

Mr Goldstone described the settlement as a “large relief for the royal family”.

The statement sent to US judge Lewis Kaplan confirming the decision said: “Virginia Giuffre and Prince Andrew have reached an out of court settlement.

“The parties will file a stipulated dismissal upon Ms Giuffre’s receipt of the settlement (the sum of which is not being disclosed).

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“Prince Andrew intends to make a substantial donation to Ms Giuffre’s charity in support of victims’ rights.”

It added: “Prince Andrew regrets his association with Epstein, and commends the bravery of Ms Giuffre and other survivors in standing up for themselves and others.

“He pledges to demonstrate his regret for his association with Epstein by supporting the fight against the evils of sex trafficking, and by supporting its victims.”

The statements ending comments on Prince Andrew’s commitment to “supporting the fight against the evils of sex trafficking” amounted, in Mr Goldstone’s view, to the prince’s attempt to “rehabilitate himself”.

He added the stripping of Prince Andrew’s military titles last month was an eye-opening moment for the royal.

It is estimated the cost of the settlement will far outweigh that made by Jeffrey Epstein to Ms Giuffre in 2009 of $500,000 (£370,000).

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