When a civil dispute reaches court
Civil procedure governs how private claims are pursued and defended in court. Alongside the substantive claim, the competent court, the correct party, the presentation of facts and the available evidence matter. A court document should therefore be assessed promptly, together with its date of service.
Deadlines and legal representation
A served claim, payment order or court direction can involve different deadlines and response options. Keep the envelope or proof of service and establish exactly which document you have received. Contacting a law firm does not replace a required statement to the court.
Legal representation is compulsory depending on the court and procedure. Section 78 of the German Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) contains rules particularly for proceedings before the regional courts (Landgerichte) and higher regional courts (Oberlandesgerichte). Even where representing yourself is generally permitted, requirements as to form, time limits and content must be met.
Costs and legal aid
Before proceedings, the value in dispute, possible court and lawyers’ fees and exposure to costs should be assessed. Persons unable to meet the full costs of litigation because of their personal and financial circumstances may apply for legal aid subject to section 114 ZPO. The prospects of success and whether the pursuit or defence of the case is unreasonable (mutwillig) are also examined. Legal aid is not a blanket exemption from all possible costs.
Documents for an initial assessment
- Complete court documents, with envelope or proof of service
- Contracts, invoices and previous correspondence
- A brief timeline of events
- Available evidence and the names of the parties involved
When contacting STEINWACHS, mention the court, case reference and known deadlines at the outset. Our office overview provides contact details.
Statutory sources
As of 8 October 2026. General information; legal assessment depends on the individual case.