Question 80 · Federal question
Which court in Germany is responsible for the interpretation of the Basic Law?
German original (as asked in the real test)
Welches Gericht in Deutschland ist zuständig für die Auslegung des Grundgesetzes?
- A Oberlandesgericht
- B Amtsgericht
- C Bundesverfassungsgericht ✓ Correct answer
- D Verwaltungsgericht
Translation
Which court in Germany is responsible for the interpretation of the Basic Law?
- A Higher Regional Court
- B District Court
- C Federal Constitutional Court ✓ Correct answer
- D Administrative Court
Explanation
The Federal Constitutional Court (Bundesverfassungsgericht) is the only court empowered to interpret the Basic Law (Grundgesetz) and decide constitutional matters. Other courts handle civil, criminal, or administrative cases within their jurisdictions but do not authoritatively interpret the constitution.
Tips
- Look for keywords like “Grundgesetz,” “constitutional review,” or “constitutional complaint”—these point to the constitutional court at the federal level. Eliminate courts known for first-instance local cases (civil/criminal), regional appellate cases, or administrative disputes. Remember the hierarchy: constitutional questions are decided by a specialized federal court seated in Karlsruhe.
