GRP Rainer LLP

The Bundesgerichtshof (BGH), Germany's Federal Court of Justice, has once again strengthened the rights of consumers when withdrawing from pension schemes and life insurance policies with its ruling of October 14, 2015 (Az.: IV ZR 284/12).

The managing director of a GmbH (limited liability company) may be personally liable for payment of the company's tax debts if he fails to discharge his obligation to ensure the provision of funds.

Anybody who wishes to withdraw from their life insurance policy or pension scheme can have someone review whether this is possible. This is generally more financially appealing than termination.

Employers ought not to rely on the rules of intestate succession but instead prepare a will. The law firm GRP Rainer has extensive experience in business succession planning.

According to a ruling of the OLG Frankfurt (Higher Regional Court of Frankfurt), the right to withdraw from a loan is not forfeited even after years have passed since the conclusion of the loan agreement (Az.: 23 U 24/15).

Investors in Scholz Holding GmbH bonds will not receive an interest payment on March 8. The due payment has been deferred until May 31, 2016.

In its ruling of February 24, the General Court of the European Union (EGC) rejected a legal action brought by a well-known soft drinks manufacturer to register a bottle without fluting as a Community trademark (T-411/14).

Two parallel stripes on the sides of a sports shoe cannot be registered as a Community trademark. This comes from a ruling of the European Court of Justice (ECJ) dated February 17, 2016.

Anyone who has evaded taxes is still able to submit a voluntary declaration that can lead to immunity. With the help of a successful voluntary declaration, it is possible to avoid a conviction for tax evasion.

According to a ruling of the OLG Schleswig (Higher Regional Court of Schleswig) from July 16, 2015, if a will is not precisely dated then the testamentary disposition may be ineffective (Az.: 3 Wx 53/15).