Spencer Divorce: Countess Keeps Royal Title After Bitter Fight

The divorce settlement between Earl Spencer and Karen Spencer has been finalized, concluding two years of intense negotiations. Karen Spencer, 53, will continue to use the title Countess Spencer, a decision understood to acknowledge her efforts in improving the Althorp estate, the burial place of Princess Diana. The divorce was officially concluded in December. However, financial matters are still being decided.

Mr. Justice Peel noted that several aspects of the case remain 'hotly disputed.' A key point of contention involves financial arrangements related to litigation with Professor Cat Jarman, Earl Spencer's girlfriend. Professor Jarman, a Norwegian archaeologist, had sued Karen Spencer for misuse of private information.

This privacy case was settled out of court in December, with Karen's legal team agreeing to a settlement without admitting liability. The court ruled that Earl Spencer would partially fund the costs through his divorce settlement. Karen's lawyer stated she was 'shocked and devastated' by the divorce, which she alleged Earl Spencer communicated via text message just four weeks after a romantic Valentine's Day message.

Earl Spencer denied ending the marriage by text, asserting Karen initiated the separation and requested he confirm it via text. He engaged Fiona Shackleton, a renowned divorce lawyer. Karen had previously moved out of Althorp and is reportedly considering new business endeavors, having been involved in initiatives to promote the Althorp estate, including regenerative farming projects.