The first-instance court and available appeal route should be assessed before proceedings begin. German civil litigation does not provide a sequence of unlimited retries. Facts and evidence should be prepared fully at the first stage.
Procedure and practical preparation
For ordinary monetary civil disputes, local courts generally have jurisdiction up to and including EUR 10,000 under the rules applicable from 2026, subject to statutory exceptions and transitional provisions. An ordinary case beginning at a local court usually goes to the regional court on appeal; a case beginning at a regional court usually goes to the higher regional court. The higher regional court is not an additional ordinary appeal stage after every regional-court appeal. An appeal generally requires an amount in dispute on appeal exceeding EUR 1,000 or admission by the first-instance court. Further review by the BGH has separate requirements, and representation in civil matters generally requires a lawyer admitted there.
Four practical examples
These are illustrative situations, not descriptions of particular client matters or promises of an outcome.
1. EUR 8,000 payment claim
The general value threshold points towards a local court, but special jurisdiction and the full value of all claims still need examination.
2. EUR 80,000 contract claim
An ordinary dispute generally starts at a regional court, with an appeal typically to the higher regional court.
3. Small part of claim lost
The appellant’s actual adverse outcome, rather than the original claim value alone, is relevant to appeal admissibility.
4. BGH review sought
Admission requirements and reviewable legal errors must be assessed with the necessary specialist representation.
Documents for the initial review
Please keep the complete correspondence, contracts, decisions and service records available. Identify any deadlines and the person coordinating information within your business. The initial review determines the correct procedure and the further evidence needed; it does not replace a filing with the court or authority.
Related guidance
Strategy and costs · Settlement · Enforcement
Legal framework
Courts Constitution Act (GVG) – 23 · German legislation – 511 · German legislation – 517 · German legislation – 520 · German legislation – 544 · German legislation – 78
Updated 13 November 2026. This guide concerns German proceedings; special statutory rules and international instruments may affect the individual case.