Oktoberfest in Munich – Your rights and what you should consider
Oktoberfest in Munich attracts visitors from all over the world every year. Alongside the festive atmosphere, there may also be police checks, disputes, or incidents with possible criminal-law consequences. This article explains some of the legal issues that may become relevant during Oktoberfest and outlines the main rights you have when dealing with the police […]
German Strafbefehl in Bavaria: When Can Proceedings Be Discontinued Under Section 153a StPO?
A Strafbefehl is a penalty order issued under German law without a prior trial hearing and on the basis of the investigation file. Anyone who receives a Strafbefehl should therefore consider more than the fine stated in the order. The evidence, any additional legal consequences, and the personal, professional, or immigration consequences of a final […]
Investigative Gaps in Criminal Proceedings: When Prosecutors and Police Investigate One-Sidedly
In German criminal proceedings, prosecutors and police must investigate not only incriminating circumstances, but also circumstances that may exonerate the accused. However, if obvious investigative steps are not taken, an incomplete case file can develop to the detriment of the accused. Key Takeaways Under Section 160(2) of the German Code of Criminal Procedure (StPO), the […]
European Arrest Warrant: What the Asti Case Shows About Investigations in Italy
On April 13, 2026, a man was arrested in Asti on the basis of a European Arrest Warrant. According to Italian media reports, the allegation is that he failed to remit more than 63 million euros in VAT in Germany. Following the arrest, he was brought before the Corte d’Appello di Torino for the next […]
