Document background
The Notice of Final Demand (Letzte Mahnung) is a crucial document in German debt collection processes, typically issued after previous payment reminders have been unsuccessful. This document represents the final step before initiating formal legal proceedings and must strictly comply with German legal requirements, particularly those outlined in the German Civil Code (BGB). It is used when all other attempts to secure payment have failed and the creditor intends to escalate the matter to legal enforcement. The notice must include specific elements such as the exact debt amount, calculation of default interest, previous payment history, and a reasonable final deadline for payment. It serves both as a last opportunity for the debtor to settle the outstanding amount and as documentation for potential court proceedings, demonstrating that all necessary steps were taken before legal action.
