Spain’s former king to appeal no-immunity ruling
(FILES) In this file photo taken on December 6, 2018 Spain’s former King Juan Carlos attends commemorative acts marking the 40th anniversary of the Spanish Constitution at the parliament in Madrid. – Spain’s scandal-hit former king Juan Carlos I, who now lives in exile, has settled a debt of nearly 4.4 million euros ($5.4 million) with the Spanish tax authorities, his lawyer said on February 26, 2021. The back taxes were due on the value of private jet flights that were paid by a foundation based in Liechtenstein belonging to a distant cousin that are considered taxable income. (Photo by OSCAR DEL POZO / AFP)
Spain’s former king Juan Carlos I will appeal a ruling that he does not have state immunity, as he fights harassment claims from his ex-lover, a court heard Tuesday.
The 84-year-old former head of state was told last week that Corinna zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Sayn can pursue him in the English courts for civil personal injury damages.
At a hearing at the High Court in London, the former king’s lawyers said they would ask the Court of Appeal to overturn the ruling.
Judge Matthew Nicklin adjourned the case until July 8, pending the decision of the higher court about whether to grant the application.
Zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Sayn, 58 alleges that Juan Carlos harassed her after their relationship soured, using threats, break-ins at her properties and surveillance.
The Danish businesswoman’s lawyers accused him of trying to frustrate her claim. He strenuously denies the allegations.
“We are another step towards a hearing on the facts of this case,” said lawyer Robin Rathmell.
