#BGBl. 2025 I Nr. 349Law on the Development and Testing of an Online Procedure in Civil Jurisdiction
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This German federal law, published on 22 December 2025, authorizes the development and pilot testing of fully electronic online procedures within the civil court system. It amends multiple procedural codes and related statutes to enable digital filing, electronic service of documents, virtual hearings, and automated case management in selected civil matters. The legislation is exploratory in nature, focusing on creating a secure, user-friendly online platform for civil litigation while maintaining existing legal safeguards. It falls under the responsibility of the Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection and includes modifications to rules governing notaries, lawyers, costs, and cross-border legal assistance.
AI-generated summary. May contain errors. Refer to official sources for legal decisions.
Key Changes
- Authorizes development and pilot testing of a comprehensive online civil procedure platform
- Amends multiple procedural codes including ZPO, FamFG and others to permit fully electronic proceedings
- Enables electronic filing, digital service of documents and virtual hearings in civil cases
+ 3 more changes with Pro
Obligations
What this law requires
Develop and establish a fully electronic online procedure platform for civil court proceedings with secure digital filing, electronic document service, and virtual hearing capabilities
Conduct pilot testing of the online civil procedure system in selected civil matters to evaluate functionality and user experience
Amend civil procedural codes and related statutes to integrate electronic filing requirements and procedures compatible with the new online platform
Implement automated case management systems within the online procedure while maintaining compliance with existing legal safeguards
Modify rules governing notaries, lawyers, and legal representatives to accommodate electronic filing and digital participation in online procedures