Document background
The Copyright Infringement Warning Letter is a crucial legal instrument under German law, used when unauthorized use of copyrighted material is discovered. This document serves as a mandatory first step before initiating court proceedings, giving the alleged infringer an opportunity to cease the unauthorized use and settle the matter out of court. It must comply with specific requirements of German copyright law and civil procedure, including precise identification of the infringed work, detailed documentation of the infringement, and clear demands for remedy. The letter typically includes a cease and desist declaration with a penalty clause, and may also address compensation for damages and legal costs. This formal warning is particularly important in the German legal system, as failing to send it before court action could affect the recovery of legal costs.
