The Abdication Crisis (1936)
For internal use only.
Who was he? The Duke of York (later King George VI) What was it?: The abdication of King Edward VIII, one of the most significant constitutional events of the twentieth century Farrer & Co’s involvement: Advising the then Duke of York and re-establishing the firm’s role as personal legal advisers to the Sovereign
Background
In 1936, King Edward VIII made the unprecedented decision to abdicate the throne in order to marry Wallis Simpson.
The decision triggered a constitutional crisis, raising complex legal, political and personal questions. At its heart were issues of constitutional process and the legal framework required to give effect to the King’s abdication and the succession of his brother, the Duke of York, as King George VI.
The Abdication Act 1936 formalised the transfer of the Crown, marking a defining moment in modern British constitutional history.
Our work
During the Abdication Crisis, Leslie Farrer - later Sir Leslie Farrer - advised the Duke of York, who would shortly become King George VI. His continuing appointment as personal Solicitor to the King marked a significant moment for the firm; following an interval of around a hundred years, Farrer & Co was once again instructed to advise the Sovereign on His private affairs. Sir Leslie continued to act for King George VI after His accession, and subsequently for The late Queen and other members of the Royal Family.
Why it matters
The Abdication Crisis remains one of the most significant constitutional events of the twentieth century. For the firm, it marked the beginning of a renewed and enduring relationship with the Royal Family.
It also illustrates a defining aspect of the firm’s practice: advising clients at the highest levels of public life, often in moments where personal circumstances intersect with wider institutional and constitutional considerations.
The qualities demonstrated then - discretion, sound judgement and trust - continue to underpin the firm’s work today.
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