A conciliation office (old term), now a dispute resolution office, is a neutral, independent office for the out-of-court settlement of civil disputes. It is either authorized in accordance with Section 15a EGZPO in conjunction with. § Section 204 Para. 1 No. 4a BGB or authorized by law and conducts structured conciliation proceedings. The aim is to lead the parties to an amicable agreement without having to initiate court proceedings. The activities of a conciliation office can prevent the statute of limitations (Section 204 Para. 1 No. 4a BGB) and represent a cost-effective, confidential and flexible alternative to court proceedings.
