Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Say the Queen Can't Legally Stop Them from Using the Term "Royal"

Weeks after announcing they would step down as senior members of the royal family, the drama surrounding Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's exit is showing no signs of slowing down.

On Friday, it was revealed that the couple would no longer use the "Sussex Royal" moniker in their branding efforts after the Queen forbid it. However, in a new statement, Meghan and Harry make it *very* clear that they are only dropping the title in order to comply with Queen Elizabeth's wishes, explicitly pointing out that she legally has no right to stop them from using the term overseas.

<p>Mark Cuthbert/Getty Images</p>

Mark Cuthbert/Getty Images

"While there is not any jurisdiction by The Monarchy or Cabinet Office over the use of the word "Royal" overseas, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex do not intend to use "Sussex Royal" or any iteration of the word "Royal" in any territory (either within the UK or otherwise) when the transition occurs Spring 2020," they said.

Meanwhile, Meghan and Harry have removed their applications to trademark the term, which they admit were "filed as protective measures" and "reflected the same standard trademarking requests as done for The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge."

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The website also implies that the Sussexes feel that they are being treated differently to other members who have sought employment outside the monarchy, highlighting how they are subject to a one-year review."While there is precedent for other titled members of the Royal Family to seek employment outside of the institution, for The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, a 12-month review period has been put in place," they pointed out.

In so many words, Meghan and Harry aren't happy with the way the Queen is handling their transition and aren't afraid to let everyone know as much.