Antitrust law: Using mediation to resolve antitrust disputes out of court?

At the end of the year, a large number of claims are once again at risk of becoming time-barred. The regular limitation period is 3 years, which means that claims that arose in 2013 may become time-barred at the end of 2016. However, the limitation period can be suspended if, for example, an application for conciliation is submitted to a state-recognized conciliation office. It does not matter whether the claims are between consumers, between companies or between companies and consumers. The suspension of the limitation period ends at the earliest 6 months after the end of the conciliation proceedings. Depending on the complexity of the matter or the question of the specific claim, it may be advisable to consult an expert advisor before initiating conciliation proceedings and when formulating a conciliation application. A state-recognized conciliation office is not permitted to provide advice when formulating a conciliation application due to its obligation to absolute neutrality and impartiality.
CenaCom staff will be happy to answer any other questions you may have about conciliation proceedings.