What You Need to Know (Das Wichtigste)
German Civil Law (BGB)
Germany operates under the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) - the German Civil Code. Unlike common law countries, German law is codified. Contract law, consumer protection, and debt collection all follow specific statutory rules.
Mahnung Requirements
A proper demand letter (Mahnung) must clearly state the claim, amount owed, and deadline for payment. After the deadline passes, the debtor is in "Verzug" (default) and you can claim interest and collection costs.
Consumer Protection (Strong)
German consumer protection law is among the strongest in Europe. The Verbraucherschutzgesetz provides extensive rights for consumers against businesses. Know your rights before sending that letter.
Statute of Limitations
The standard limitation period (Verjährungsfrist) in Germany is 3 years, starting at the end of the year when the claim arose. Some claims have shorter or longer periods. Don't wait too long.
German Legal Framework (The 30-Second Version)
Germany uses a civil law system based on comprehensive legal codes. The BGB (Civil Code) governs contracts, property, and obligations. The HGB (Commercial Code) applies to business transactions. Consumer disputes under 5,000 EUR typically go to the Amtsgericht (local court). German law requires specific formal requirements for many legal actions. A proper Mahnung (demand letter) is often the first step before court proceedings. Interest on late payments is automatic under BGB § 288 (currently 5% above base rate for consumers, 9% for businesses). This tool helps you create that first formal step - but for anything complex, consult a Rechtsanwalt (German lawyer).
Common Questions (Häufige Fragen)
Do I need a lawyer in Germany?
For claims under 5,000 EUR at the Amtsgericht, you can represent yourself. For larger claims or complex cases, a Rechtsanwalt is recommended. This tool helps with the demand letter - the step before court.
What about the Mahnverfahren?
The Mahnverfahren is Germany's simplified court payment order process. It's fast and cheap for uncontested debts. A proper demand letter is typically sent first. If they still don't pay, the Mahnverfahren is your next step.
Can I write in English?
Legal documents in Germany should generally be in German for enforceability. Our generator creates German-appropriate letters, but court proceedings require German. International contracts may have different rules.
What interest can I claim?
Under BGB § 288, you can claim 5 percentage points above the ECB base rate for consumer transactions, or 9 points for B2B. Plus reasonable collection costs. German law is quite generous here.
Ready to Get What You're Owed?
Generate your German demand letter in minutes. State-specific, legally sound, and properly formatted. Free to use, no account required.
Generate Your Demand Letter Now