In certain circumstances an employer is entitled to analyse the browsing history of the work computer used by the employee without a need for the employee's consent.

The German Federal Labor Court has issued a significant ruling that may ease the administrative burden on international employers terminating employees in Germany. In cross-border situations, the court held that strict written-form requirements under German law may not always apply, potentially allowing termination by email or telephone under certain circumstances. This decision creates new flexibility for U.S. employers and others operating across borders, though careful legal analysis remains essential.

In recent decisions, the European Court of Justice and subsequently the German Federal Employment Court have strengthened employees' rights regarding vacation claims and their forfeiture.

In order to increase presence in the office, many employers are renegotiating existing provisions on working from home. In doing so, the interests of employers in increasing productivity...

A German labor court has struck down a widespread workplace practice, ruling that employers cannot impose blanket two-week limits on consecutive annual leave.

Germany's AGG hopping practice involves individuals submitting fake job applications solely to provoke discriminatory rejections and claim compensation under the General Act on Equal Treatment. Courts have established high thresholds for proving abuse of rights, while employers face significant liability risks despite recent case law developments and pending legislative amendments that may further complicate the landscape.

A German labor court has ruled that an employee's announcement of family care leave immediately following a separation meeting constituted an abuse of rights, denying special dismissal protection. The decision establishes that when multiple indicators suggest an employee's primary intent is avoiding termination rather than providing genuine care, employers may successfully challenge the protection typically afforded under Germany's Family Care Leave Act.

Stellt das Arbeitsgericht im Kündigungsschutzprozess fest, dass die vom Arbeitgeber ausgesprochene Kündigung unwirksam ist und besteht deshalb nach der Entscheidung des Gerichts das Arbeitsverhältnis fort,...

In Germany, an employee (Arbeitnehmer) enjoys a special status that is described as the personal obligation to perform work upon the employer's instructions, without entrepreneurial risks ...

The German Federal Labour Court examines whether minor errors in mass dismissal notifications automatically invalidate terminations, providing crucial guidance for employers navigating collective redundancy procedures. This commentary analyzes the court's June 25, 2026 ruling and its implications for employment law practice.

Due to increased awareness and reporting triggered by the international #metoo discussion, besides taking preventive measures, it is crucial for companies with employees in Germany

Labour and Employment Comparative Guide for the jurisdiction of Germany, check out our comparative guides section to compare across multiple countries

Labour and Employment Comparative Guide for the jurisdiction of Germany, check out our comparative guides section to compare across multiple countries