Germany's laws and regulations on cannabis possession and use appear to be on the verge of enormous changes as the German parliament has supported a new law to allow the recreational use of cannabis. This decision represents a significant milestone in the nation's drug policy landscape; however, it is only a partial legalisation of [...]
In an increasingly interconnected, globalised world, the freedom to travel guaranteed by possessing a particular passport is of crucial importance for the mobility of its holders. The Henley Passport Index, which lists countries and territories regarding freedom to travel, shows a highly interesting development: the German passport is at the top of the current [...]
In a historic move, the German Bundestag has approved extensive changes to the nation's citizenship law, ushering in a new era of inclusivity and flexibility. It now needs to be accepted by the German Bundesrat before it can be fully implemented. However, should the law pass as it is, residents in Germany will [...]
Surrogacy has become a significant option worldwide for couples with an unfulfilled desire to have children. German couples are also using surrogate mothers increasingly every year to realise their wish for a child. However, as surrogacy is not legally permitted in Germany, many couples travel abroad to realise this wish. The USA is a [...]
A Case Study from our Legal Practice In July 2023, our lawyers successfully obtained the registration of our clients' parenthood before the Düsseldorf Local Court for surrogacy that took place abroad. This spared our clients the time-consuming adoption procedure. This judgement not only represents a further milestone in the field of surrogacy but is [...]
The use of Artificial Intelligence is set to be regulated in the EU in the future through the so-called AI-Act in order to address the potential risks of this technology. Although this measure should be considered more as a "Work in Progress" due to the unpredictable future of AI, today the framework is to [...]
In a recent case, our legal team successfully prevented a client from being extradited to Belgium for prosecution. If the extradition had been successful, our client would have faced a prison sentence of up to 15 years. Our lawyers were able to show in court - apart from formal errors in the European Arrest [...]
The annual Oktoberfest celebrations in Munich, Germany, attract millions of attendees from all over the world. Although for most tourists, it is a memorable occasion synonymous with joyous gatherings, flowing beer, and a sense of unbridled revelry, there are potential risks involved. Legal difficulties and being arrested at Oktoberfest can make an unforgettable festival [...]
The debate on the extradition of Ukrainian and Russian conscientious objectors has recently entered the public discourse in Germany. The discussion was triggered by the statement of politician David Arakhamia in the Ukrainian parliament that the extradition of persons who had illegally evaded military service was possible. Legally, the extradition of Ukrainian or Russian conscientious [...]
From September 2023, consumer protection associations will have a new legal instrument at their disposal to obtain collective redress against businesses on behalf of consumers. With the remedial action, it will be possible for associations to sue for performance, but also for damages, contract termination, price reduction, or purchase price reimbursement in cases involving [...]