rechtsact

Rechtsakt is a German legal term meaning “legal act.” In German-speaking legal theory and practice, it denotes a binding act adopted by a competent public authority that creates, modifies, or extinguishes rights and obligations. A Rechtsakt differs from private law transactions (Rechtsgeschäft) in that its binding force derives from public authority rather than private agreement. It generally becomes effective through a formal act of promulgation or publication.

The term covers a broad range of instruments, including statutes passed by a legislature (Gesetz), executive or subordinate rules (Verordnung, Rechtsverordnung), and decisions of public bodies (Beschluss). In German administrative law, Verwaltungsakt is a sub-category of Rechtsakt that directly affects a specific person or entity with individual normative effects. In the European Union, the German-language term Rechtsakt is used in official texts to denote any binding EU act, such as Verordnung (regulation), Richtlinie (directive), or Beschluss (decision), regardless of the issuing body. The essential characteristics are binding effect, public legal authority, and normative content. Publication in an official gazette and the date of entry into force mark the start of the Rechtsakt’s effect. Some acts may be subject to procedural conditions, such as consultation, publication, or notification to affected parties.