The acronym "BGB" stands for "Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch," which translates to "Civil Code" in English. The BGB refers to the German legal code that comprehensively governs private law and civil matters within Germany. Originally enacted in 1900, the BGB is one of the most important legal statutes in the country.
The BGB encompasses a wide range of legal topics, including matters related to contractual agreements, property rights, family law, inheritance, and torts. It serves as the foundation for regulating interactions between individuals, businesses, and other legal entities in Germany. The BGB is structured in five books (Buch in German) that organize the different areas of law it covers.
Book One focuses on general provisions, such as legal capacity, legal entities, and the principles of civil law. Book Two deals with the law of obligations, including contracts, liability, and unjust enrichment. Book Three is dedicated to property law, covering aspects like ownership, possession, and real rights. Book Four is concerned with family law, addressing marriage, divorce, parental authority, and guardianship. Finally, Book Five deals with the law of succession, encompassing inheritance, wills, and legacies.
The BGB is regularly updated to reflect social and legal developments, and its interpretation is shaped by court decisions and legal doctrine. Given its significance, the BGB serves as an essential reference for legal professionals, academics, and individuals seeking legal guidance within the German legal system.
