Employment Law in Germany

German employment law consists of statutes, employment contracts, collective agreements, and workplace agreements. There is no single employment code that collects all the rules. An employment contract sets out the main terms of a job, especially the duties, pay, place of work, and working hours. Mandatory protections also apply when they are not written into the contract. Employees must perform their agreed work carefully and follow workplace rules. Employers must pay wages, protect employees, and comply with the agreed working conditions. Protections in everyday working life include rules on rest, illness, safety, and equal treatment. Employees may not be disadvantaged because of certain personal characteristics. Special protection may apply to particular groups. Collective agreements are concluded by trade unions and employers or employers’ associations. They can set working conditions jointly for many employees. In workplaces with the relevant organization, a works council represents the workforce and has statutory participation rights. An employment relationship can end, for example, through dismissal or a termination agreement. A dismissal must meet formal requirements and can be reviewed legally. Particular circumstances can affect protection against dismissal. If a dispute arises, keep contracts, pay statements, messages, and working-time records. Many disputes begin with a conversation or a written request. Labour courts decide cases when no solution is reached. Employment-law deadlines can be short and have serious consequences. If you receive a dismissal, are missing pay, or feel you have been treated unfairly, seek qualified advice promptly.