What is a conciliation office and how does it help to interrupt the limitation period?
Conciliation offices are neutral institutions that resolve disputes out of court. When conciliation proceedings are initiated, the statute of limitations is suspended. This means that there is no limitation period during the proceedings. Six months after the proceedings are concluded, the limitation period continues to run.
What does the procedure at the conciliation office look like?
Submitting an application: A party can apply to a competent conciliation office for proceedings.
Discussion and mediation: The conciliation office organises a meeting at which the parties try to reach an agreement.
Agreement or failure: The parties conclude a new agreement under the guidance of the conciliation office or the conciliation office determines the failure of the negotiation.
Suspension of the limitation period: The limitation period is suspended upon receipt of the conciliation application. The suspension only ends six months after the failure or other termination of the initiated proceedings has been established.
Why is the conciliation office often underestimated?
Despite its advantages, many people are unaware of the conciliation office. It is often assumed that only legal proceedings such as a lawsuit or an order for payment stop the limitation period. However, the conciliation office is a quick, cost-effective and less burdensome alternative that can resolve disputes without the complications of court proceedings.
What are the advantages of the conciliation office?
- Low costs: Conciliation proceedings are significantly cheaper than court proceedings.
- Speed: The proceedings can be concluded quickly and easily.
- Less stress: An out-of-court procedure is often less stressful than a lengthy court dispute.
- Confidentiality: The proceedings are confidential and not subject to public scrutiny Enforceable: The agreement can be declared enforceable by the local district court at the request of one of the parties.
Conclusion
The conciliation office is a valuable option for interrupting the limitation period for claims. It offers a cost-effective, quick and less burdensome way of resolving disputes out of court and confidentially. Anyone who acts in good time in the event of an impending limitation period should consider this option.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
The most important things in brief summarised
- Conciliation proceedings suspend the statute of limitations for up to six months after the conclusion of the proceedings.
- The conciliation office offers a fast, cost-effective and confidential alternative to court proceedings.
