geltendes

Geltendes is an attributive form of the German adjective geltend, used to indicate that something applies, is valid, or is in force. In legal and regulatory language it frequently appears in phrases such as das geltende Recht (the law currently in force), das geltende Vertragsrecht or die geltende Verordnung. The form geltendes is the neuter singular nominative/accusative ending: das geltende Recht. It can also appear in plural as geltende Gesetze.

The term denotes the body of rules that presently governs a given matter within a jurisdiction. It is commonly contrasted with older or superseded norms, proposed rules, or future legislation. Geltendes Recht encompasses statutory law, as well as potentially applicable administrative regulations, provided they are in force. It is distinct from terms like gültig (valid) and in Kraft (in force), though they relate to legal status. Gültig describes the validity of a rule or document, while in Kraft marks the moment a norm becomes legally enforceable. Geltendes Recht asks which rules currently apply to a situation.

In usage, writers and judges use geltendes Recht to anchor interpretation and decisions, as in Die Entscheidung richtet sich nach dem geltenden Recht des Landes. The concept is central in comparative law and cross-border disputes, where it may be necessary to distinguish between geltendes Recht, anwendbares Recht (applicable law), and lex fori in international contexts. The term is standard in German-speaking legal systems, as well as in legislative drafting and regulatory explanations.