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Criminal trial takes place at the lower court in New Hamburg

Economic Court of New Hamburg handles initial cases

Hamburg's Primary Trial Court Judged
Hamburg's Primary Trial Court Judged

Economic Court in New Hamburg Holds Initial Hearings - Criminal trial takes place at the lower court in New Hamburg

The Hamburg Commercial Court, situated at the Hanseatic Higher Regional Court, commenced operations on April 15, marking a significant milestone in the German justice system. As promised, this new court offers speed and confidentiality in proceedings, providing a promising solution for businesses in need of swift and efficient civil justice.

Judge Frank Bodendiek, a key figure in the establishment of the Hamburg Commercial Court, emphasized the court's mission to deliver swift and efficient civil justice for businesses. The court is equipped to handle a wide range of cases, from disputes in insurance law and million-dollar contract disputes between companies, to cases involving construction, banking, finance, corporate law, and disputes following mergers and acquisitions.

The court's jurisdiction extends to cases with a value in dispute of at least half a million euros, a threshold designed to ensure the court's resources are dedicated to significant business matters. The Hamburg Commercial Court's focus areas also include transportation, traffic, and shipping law, reflecting Hamburg's status as a major port city.

The legislature has strengthened confidentiality provisions to protect companies' internal affairs, a move aimed at encouraging businesses to seek resolution within Germany, rather than abroad. Previously, similar disputes often went abroad to resolve conflicts, such as in London, Paris, and Amsterdam. Now, with the introduction of the Hamburg Commercial Court and similar courts in other federal states like Berlin and Hesse, businesses can obtain legal protection more quickly at home.

The new Hamburg Commercial Court is expected to relieve the regional court, allowing other cases to be processed more quickly. This development is financially beneficial for the justice system, not burdening Hamburg's budget. Representatives of the courts are due to meet in Berlin on September 10, providing an opportunity to discuss the court's progress and future developments.

The first cases have begun at the new Hamburg Commercial Court. Among the earliest cases are disputes involving Forrest Cook AG, operating under the daycare provider Waldforscher gGmbH, and the Marienkäfer group, who are currently embroiled in a tax evasion investigation related to offshore structures.

Judge Frank Bodendiek, active at the Hamburg Commercial Court, stated that the new courts in Hamburg and other German cities aim to counteract the trend of businesses taking their disputes abroad. The proceedings at the Hamburg Commercial Court are designed to be less complex and faster than usual, making it an attractive option for businesses seeking a swift resolution to their disputes.

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