Rechtsanliegens

Rechtsanliegen is a German noun (das Rechtsanliegen; plural die Rechtsanliegen) describing a legal matter or concern that a person or organization seeks to have addressed within the legal system. It is a broad, non-technical term used in everyday language and in official contexts to refer to rights, duties, claims, or conflicts that require legal clarification, protection, or resolution. The concept spans civil, administrative, and criminal law and includes issues such as interpreting a contract, asserting a claim for damages, contesting an administrative decision, or beginning a lawsuit.

In practice, a Rechtsanliegen typically starts with identifying the legal issue and seeking legal advice (Rechtsberatung). Depending on the desired remedy, the next steps may include filing a complaint or lawsuit (Klage), submitting a formal objection or appeal (Widerspruch, Berufung), or seeking enforcement or other relief from a court or authority. The matter may be handled by a Rechtsanwalt or, in some contexts, by a legal aid service. Outcomes range from negotiated settlements to judicial decisions.

Etymology: The term is formed from Rechts 'law' and Anliegen 'concern, matter.'