Glossary · Austria and Germany
Enforcement title
An enforcement title is a legally recognised basis for compulsory recovery of a claim. Depending on jurisdiction, it may be a judgment, certain payment orders, a court settlement or an enforceable notarial instrument.
Distinguish the concepts
An invoice, private acknowledgement or reminder does not automatically constitute a title. Finality and enforceability are also different: some decisions may be enforceable before becoming final. Beyond the title, the conditions for the specific enforcement measure must be satisfied.
Jurisdiction and scope
Austria commonly uses the term Exekutionstitel. Its official guidance identifies possible title types and addresses enforceability. In Germany, the ZPO and other rules determine which decisions and instruments qualify. An initial Mahnbescheid is not a Vollstreckungsbescheid. Cross-border use can involve additional document or translation requirements.
Illustrative business example
A business already has a judgment. Before commissioning further action, it assembles the title, evidence of service and enforceability, prior measures and the current balance. Payments received since judgment also belong in the file. The original award must not remain recorded as wholly unpaid after partial satisfaction.
Common questions
Does a title guarantee payment?
No. It supplies a legal basis, not attachable assets or an ability to pay.
Are all titled claims handled identically?
Assess title type, scope, enforceability, other prerequisites and payments received.
Why update the balance?
Enforcement should concern what remains outstanding. Keep the award, later costs, interest and payments traceable and separate.
Related topics
Sources and basis
Content reviewed on 23 September 2026. Procedural information and our contractual terms are separate foundations. The individual case remains decisive.
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