Consultation Held on Draft Directive for Worker Radiation Protection, Addressing Radiation-Related Risks

In the upcoming hearings at the VGH Baden-Württemberg on October 2, 2025, the future of immediate Corona aid for hundreds of companies in the region hangs in the balance. The hearings aim to establish a uniform line of jurisprudence regarding the repayment of Corona-Soforthilfen, a relief program introduced during the pandemic to support businesses, freelancers, and the self-employed.

Over the past few years, hundreds of thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises have taken advantage of the aid. However, in 2023, many federal states began demanding the repayment of Corona-Soforthilfen. This has left many companies facing substantial sums to repay or the threat of legal action.

Legal assistance is crucial for companies who have already spent their bridging aid. Dr. Stoll & Sauer Law Firm, a leading legal practice in Baden-Württemberg, offers professional and competent advice on all aspects of Corona relief and reimbursement notices. The firm has already conducted over 3,000 consultations regarding the Corona-Soforthilfe and has won several cases at administrative courts across the region.

Dr. Stoll & Sauer Law Firm will be present with two cases in the Mannheim hearings, both of which were won in the first instance at the Administrative Court of Stuttgart and the Administrative Court of Karlsruhe. The law firm specializes in banking and capital markets law, labor law, IT law, administrative law, insurance law, and mass proceedings, with 18 specialized attorneys serving clients in Lahr and Stuttgart.

In Stuttgart, a medium-sized business that had received €9,000 in immediate aid was ordered to return the money by the government presidency. However, the Administrative Court ruled that the revocation and refund decision were unlawful. Similarly, in Karlsruhe, a company was faced with a recovery notice. The judges emphasized that the immediate aid was granted unbureaucratically and in a lump sum to secure livelihoods. The revocation of the grant decision could not be based solely on the individual reason "liquidity shortages."

Affected parties should have return notices checked, and if a revocation or repayment notice has arrived at the company, swift objection should be lodged, and deadlines and form must be observed. Companies should seek legal advice and consultation early on, ideally even when the repayment requirement is being determined.

Dr. Stoll & Sauer Law Firm offers a free initial assessment in the Corona Aid Online Check. The firm is also leading a model case against Mercedes-Benz Group AG, with a first success in the lower instance. Dr. Stoll & Sauer is convinced that the VGH will confirm the clear line of the administrative courts.

The helper programs related to the COVID-19 pandemic were rapid and unbureaucratic financial support measures aimed at companies, self-employed individuals, and freelancers to mitigate the economic impact of the pandemic. These included state aid such as Corona emergency aid and stabilization loans, as well as European mechanisms like the ESM pandemic credit lines, intended to finance health-related costs and support economic stability.

As the VGH hearings approach, companies across Baden-Württemberg await the decisions that will determine their financial futures. With the right legal guidance, they can navigate the complexities of the repayment process and protect their interests.