Germany (federal framework): Volljurist (Befähigung zum Richteramt) pathway
Scope
- Degree recognition
Law study lasts four and a half years, at least two of them at a university in Germany; details set by Land law.
“Die Studienzeit beträgt viereinhalb Jahre”
- Program approval or accreditation
Qualification requires law study at a university.
“ein rechtswissenschaftliches Studium an einer Universität”
- Additional education or training
Not confirmed. Professional eligibility must be confirmed with the relevant regulator.
- Examination requirements
First examination = university Schwerpunktbereich exam plus state compulsory-subject exam; second state exam ends the Vorbereitungsdienst.
“die erste Prüfung besteht aus einer universitären Schwerpunktbereichsprüfung und einer staatlichen Pflichtfachprüfung”
- Supervised practice
The Vorbereitungsdienst (preparatory service) lasts two years with compulsory stations.
“Der Vorbereitungsdienst dauert zwei Jahre.”
- Foreign qualification assessment
Not confirmed. Professional eligibility must be confirmed with the relevant regulator.
- Residency or other restrictions
Not confirmed. Professional eligibility must be confirmed with the relevant regulator.
- Online study
Not confirmed. Professional eligibility must be confirmed with the relevant regulator.
Regulator: Federal Ministry of Justice (Gesetze im Internet, Deutsches Richtergesetz) · official source for this record · last checked 1 November 2026.