Verwaltungsverfügung

A Verwaltungsverfügung, often translated as administrative act or administrative order, is a unilateral decision made by a public authority in Germany that has a direct legal effect on a specific individual or entity. It is a core concept within German administrative law, representing the primary means by which administrative bodies implement and enforce laws. These decisions are typically issued to grant, modify, or revoke rights or obligations, or to impose prohibitions or permissions.

For a measure to qualify as a Verwaltungsverfügung, several criteria must be met. It must be an act of a public authority, issued in the exercise of public power. The act must be aimed at creating a legal effect, meaning it must change the legal status of the recipient. Furthermore, it must be directed towards a specific person or a clearly defined group of persons, distinguishing it from general administrative regulations. The decision must also be immediately enforceable, meaning it can be carried out even if legal remedies are sought.

Common examples of Verwaltungsverfügungen include building permits, tax assessments, driver's license revocations, or fines for traffic violations. Individuals who are negatively affected by a Verwaltungsverfügung have legal recourse, typically through administrative appeal (Widerspruch) and subsequently through judicial review before an administrative court (Verwaltungsgericht). The detailed procedural requirements and substantive grounds for issuing and challenging a Verwaltungsverfügung are extensively regulated by German administrative procedure acts.