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To ensure that you are always up to date, you will receive occasional notifications about important court rulings as well as legal commentary and notes from our experts on this page. Please be aware that the original language of our news content is German. While we strive for accuracy, automated or manual translations may occasionally contain errors. If any part of a ruling or commentary is unclear, do not hesitate to reach out to us for direct advice.
Divorce and nothing settled - too late?
On average, around one in three marriages in Germany ends in divorce. This affected around 137,400 couples in 2022 alone. A clear, amicable and, above all, peaceful settlement of the situation is important for the spouses and the children who are particularly affected. To initiate a divorce, an application must be made to the family court....
Caution required: Pitfalls with gifts of real estate to minors
As part of family wealth planning, parents and grandparents often decide to gift their property to minors. However, what at first glance appears to be a generous gesture can quickly turn into a legal maze. Representing minors: Pitfalls and challenges "It is a widespread tradition to pass on assets during one's lifetime to...
Married couples without children: Deciding on inheritance with foresight
Childless couples often think that the surviving partner will automatically inherit everything when the other dies. They therefore consider a will to be unnecessary. However, this is a common misconception that can have serious consequences for the surviving partner. Notaries can provide expert advice on how best to protect the surviving partner. The...
New register for civil law companies - BGB companies can obtain legal personality
Important legal changes for civil law partnerships (GbR) will come into force on January 1, 2024. GbRs, also known as BGB companies, can register in a company register from the turn of the year. They will also have their own legal personality. There is no general obligation to register, but it offers advantages and is also possible for existing GbRs. Registration...
Company under civil law (GbR): Indirect obligation to register in new register from 2024
On January 1, 2024, the law governing civil law partnerships (GbR) will be comprehensively reformed. There is a need for action for companies with real estate ownership or company participations. The GbR should be registered in the new company register. What purpose does the register serve? And when is there an obligation to register? "The company register provides information on who is a shareholder and may represent the company....
Central register of guardians of the Federal Chamber of Notaries - registration prevents the appointment of a court-appointed guardian
More and more people are no longer able to make decisions about their own personal and financial affairs due to illness, accidents or disability. Currently, around 1.3 million people in Germany are looked after by a court-appointed guardian. If you want to retain your self-determination in the event of care, you should make provisions for this while you are still healthy and...