December 2024

German lawmakers on Thursday approved legislation designed to protect the country’s highest court against possible future manipulation or obstruction by authoritarian or extremist politicians. Officials have cited experiences in Poland, Hungary and elsewhere as illustrating the need to bolster the Federal Constitutional Court. The measure was drawn up by the three parties in the governing coalition that collapsed…

Legal Challenges in the Automotive Transport Sector European car transporters are facing significant costs and fines due to new German standards governing how vehicles are secured on trailers. Implemented with short notice in September, these rules demand stronger straps and wheel blocks, as well as certification for trucks. Transport companies argue that these regulations are…

In September 2024, the German Federal Ministry of Justice presented a draft bill to revise the Act on International Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters. The proposed changes aim to modernize the existing law and strengthen individual rights in transnational criminal proceedings. The draft is currently under review and discussion. READ MORE

Citizenship Law Reforms Significant changes to Germany’s nationality law took effect on June 27, 2024. The new regulations allow dual citizenship and reduce the residency requirement for naturalization from eight to five years, or three years for individuals demonstrating exceptional integration. These reforms aim to attract skilled workers and reflect Germany’s commitment to being a…

Cannabis Legalization Progress Germany is advancing toward legalizing cannabis for recreational use. The Bundestag voted in favor of the legislation in February 2024, with the law expected to take effect by April 1, 2024. Adults will be permitted to possess up to 25 grams of cannabis and cultivate a limited number of plants for personal…

Several Australian states are preparing to implement significant road rule changes in 2025: New South Wales: Provisional drivers over 25 may be permitted to use mobile phones for navigation. Exemptions for helmet requirements for Sikhs wearing turbans on bicycles and scooters are also under consideration. Victoria: Proposed changes include lowering the probationary license age from…

Record Influx of Working Holiday Visa Holders Australia has experienced a significant increase in working holiday visa holders, with over 213,000 individuals on such visas by the end of November 2024. This surge is largely due to relaxed visa restrictions for UK citizens, allowing stays up to three years without mandatory farm work. The trend…

Queensland Government Contests Great Keppel Island Native Title Claim The Queensland government has announced it will contest the Woppaburra People’s native title claim over Great Keppel Island (Woppa). The claim seeks exclusive rights over the 9 sq/km island, including the resort site and airstrip. This decision has sparked public debate, with opinions divided over land…

The U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear a challenge against a law that could ban TikTok nationwide. Hearing Date: January 10, 2024. The Issue: The law, called the “Restricting Americans’ Adversary-Controlled Technology Act,” requires TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to sell its U.S. operations or face a ban. TikTok argues this violates constitutional rights. Read…

U.S. Legal Industry Retreats from China In 2024, many prominent U.S. law firms closed their offices in China due to geopolitical tensions, declining business activities, and increasing pressure on foreign entities. Who’s Affected: Firms like Milbank, Paul Weiss, and Skadden, Arps have shuttered operations in Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. Strategy: Some firms plan to…