fristlosen

Fristlosen is a term used in German law to describe termination without a notice period. In everyday and legal language, it most often appears in the phrase fristlose Kündigung, meaning an immediate termination of a contract or relationship.

In employment law, a fristlose Kündigung allows either party to end the employment contract with immediate effect if there is a serious breach of contract or conduct that makes continuation of the relationship untenable. Typical grounds include theft, violence, harassment, serious fraud, or repeated violations of essential obligations. In many jurisdictions a prior warning (Abmahnung) may be required for less severe misconduct, but it is not always mandatory when the breach is grave. The terminating party typically must provide a written justification and the termination takes effect on the date stated in the notice or the date of delivery.

In tenancy law, a fristlose Kündigung permits an immediate end to a lease by either the landlord or the tenant if there is a serious breach by the other party, such as nonpayment of rent, substantial disturbance, or illegal use of the property. The precise conditions and procedural requirements vary by jurisdiction, and in some cases a warning or an opportunity to remedy the breach may be required.

In other contracts, fristlose Kündigung can apply to service agreements or supplier relations when a fundamental obligation is not met. Across contexts, the common element is that termination occurs without the usual notice period, with immediate effect, subject to applicable legal standards and potential remedies or disputes.