Urlaub bis 18.8.2026
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19 Pages on the Tag „Contract Law“
Does your provider have to offer a short-term phone contract?
state: 18.6.2026, reading time approx. 2 min
German telecom providers don’t have to mention a 12-month contract option in their promotional letters. It’s enough if such a tariff exists somewhere in their product range. The Federal Court of Justice clarified this in May 2026.
Paid off your loan in Germany – can you still cancel it?
state: 18.6.2026, reading time approx. 2 min
In Germany, consumers have a right to withdraw from loan agreements – but only while the contract is still active. Once you’ve made your last payment, that right is gone. The Federal Court of Justice confirmed this in May 2026, following a 2023 EU ruling.
Scooter wobbles dangerously the day after purchase – who's liable?
state: 18.6.2026, reading time approx. 2 min
A used scooter started dangerously oscillating at motorway speed the day after purchase, causing an accident. Germany’s Federal Court ruled: showing a suspicious symptom within six months is enough – the seller must prove it wasn’t a defect.
Diesel scandal: Do you need to know the technical details to sue BMW?
state: 6.6.2026, reading time approx. 2 min
Germany’s Federal Court of Justice (BGH) ruled that a used-car buyer does not need to describe the technical details of a so-called thermowindow to pursue a damages claim against BMW. A general description of how the emissions system shuts down outside certain temperatures is sufficient.
Finance Leasing in Germany – Risks, Early Termination and Pitfalls
state: 19.2.2026, reading time approx. 2 min
In a German finance lease, the lessor provides an asset in return for instalments but remains owner, while the lessee bears the economic risk. Early termination is expensive. Depending on the model (mileage or residual value leasing), the lessee may carry additional market risk. Tax treatment and insurance require careful contract drafting.
Contract Law in Germany: Advice for Expats & International Businesses
state: 19.2.2026, reading time approx. 3 min
German contract law works differently from common law systems. I advise expats and international businesses in Berlin on contracts, NDAs, and dispute resolution – in English.
Contract Performance – When the Other Side Does Not Hold Up Their End
state: 19.2.2026, reading time approx. 2 min
Late delivery, defective performance, non-payment – what to do when a contract is not running as agreed. Covers formal notices, deadlines, price reduction, withholding rights, and damages.
Contract Review: Spotting Liability Traps, Clauses and Pitfalls
state: 19.2.2026, reading time approx. 2 min
A contract can be valid and still be bad for you. I review liability clauses, jurisdiction clauses, notice periods, and – just as importantly – what the contract does not address. And I negotiate amendments with the other side.
Enforcing a Claim: Debt Collection, Court Orders and Enforcement
state: 19.2.2026, reading time approx. 2 min
Enforcing a claim in Germany usually works in stages: first out of court, then via the courts if necessary. How does a Mahnbescheid (payment order) work? What should debtors do when court documents arrive? And is debt collection worth it?
Commercial Leases and Tenancy in Germany – Index Clauses, Operating Obligations, Competition Protection
state: 19.2.2026, reading time approx. 2 min
German commercial tenancy law allows broad freedom of contract – but what is not agreed is often filled by statute in unexpected ways. Index clauses, operating obligations, and missing competition protection clauses are common traps. Business leases also carry specific liability risks on takeover.