Rechtsschutzversicherung(Legal Protection Insurance) Explained
New to Germany? Rechtsschutzversicherung covers attorney fees, court costs, and legal expenses - essential protection in a country where legal disputes can be expensive.
Key German Terms
Tip for Newcomers
In Germany, legal disputes can become very expensive - attorney fees (Anwaltskosten) and court costs (Gerichtskosten) can easily reach thousands of euros even for simple cases. Rechtsschutzversicherung is especially valuable for expats who may face employment disputes, landlord conflicts, or need help navigating German bureaucracy. Important: Most policies have a 3-month waiting period (Wartezeit), so get coverage before you need it! No Schufa check is typically required.
Why Compare Legal Protection at meinetarife24.de?
Find optimal legal protection with comprehensive coverage for all areas of life - with English support for internationals.
Comprehensive
Full legal coverage
English Support
Expat-friendly service
No Schufa
No credit check needed
Expert Advice
Professional support
Legal Protection Calculator
Compare rates and find the optimal Rechtsschutzversicherung for your situation.
Loading Legal Protection Calculator...
Please wait a moment
Legal Protection Coverage Areas (Leistungsbereiche)
Different modules for comprehensive protection
Private Legal Protection (Privatrechtsschutz)
Protection in contract disputes (Vertragsstreitigkeiten), damage claims, and neighbor conflicts. Covers consumer rights issues - important for expats dealing with German contracts!
Employment Legal Protection (Arbeitsrechtsschutz)
Support for wrongful dismissal (Kundigung), warnings (Abmahnungen), and employment disputes. Essential for expats - German employment law is complex!
Rental Legal Protection (Mietrechtsschutz)
Coverage for landlord disputes, deposit issues (Kaution), and rental contract matters. Very important for renters in Germany's competitive housing market!
Traffic Legal Protection (Verkehrsrechtsschutz)
Protection for traffic accidents, speeding tickets (Bussgeld), and driver's license issues. Covers disputes with other drivers and insurance companies.
Criminal Legal Protection (Strafrechtsschutz)
Defense in criminal proceedings and administrative offenses. Covers legal representation if you are accused of a crime or misdemeanor.
Social Legal Protection (Sozialrechtsschutz)
Support in disputes with authorities (Behorden) and social insurance providers. Helpful for dealing with German bureaucracy!
Common Questions from Newcomers
Everything expats need to know about legal protection insurance in Germany
Why do expats need Rechtsschutzversicherung?
As a newcomer, you may face unique challenges: employment disputes, rental conflicts, issues with bureaucracy, or simply not understanding German contracts. Legal fees in Germany are expensive - a simple employment case can cost 2,000-5,000 EUR. Legal insurance protects you from these potentially ruinous costs.
What is the waiting period (Wartezeit)?
The waiting period is usually 3 months and means the insurance only covers disputes that arise AFTER this period. This is important: get coverage before you need it! Exceptions apply for traffic accidents and criminal defense - these are usually covered immediately.
What costs are covered (Kostendeckung)?
The insurance covers attorney fees (Anwaltskosten), court costs (Gerichtskosten), expert fees (Sachverstandigenkosten), and if you lose, also the opposing party's costs - up to the agreed insurance sum (typically 250,000-500,000 EUR per case).
Can I choose my own lawyer (Anwalt)?
Yes! In Germany, you have free choice of lawyer (freie Anwaltswahl) - this is legally guaranteed. The insurance can suggest lawyers, but you can choose any licensed attorney. Many insurers also offer English-speaking lawyer referrals for expats.
Do I need Schufa for legal insurance?
No! Legal protection insurance typically does NOT require a Schufa check. This makes it easily accessible for newcomers to Germany who may not yet have established credit history. You can apply and get coverage regardless of your Schufa status.
Which coverage modules do expats need most?
For most expats, we recommend: Arbeitsrechtsschutz (employment) - for workplace disputes, Mietrechtsschutz (rental) - for landlord issues, and Privatrechtsschutz (private) - for consumer contract disputes. Traffic coverage if you drive. Many insurers offer package deals combining these.
Legal Disclaimer
This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Insurance products are subject to German insurance law (Versicherungsvertragsgesetz - VVG). Coverage details, terms, waiting periods, and exclusions vary by provider and policy. We recommend consulting with a licensed insurance advisor for personalized recommendations. All insurance contracts are concluded directly with the respective insurance company. meinetarife24.de acts as an independent comparison platform and receives commissions from partner insurers.
Secure Your Legal Protection Today
Compare Rechtsschutzversicherung and find the right coverage for your needs - with English support for internationals. No Schufa required!