Marlene Schreiber

AI is playing an increasingly important role in the competition for technological pioneering roles. Companies are increasingly using AI assistants to automate processes or answer customer enquiries via chatbots, for example. However, the first AI agents are also finding their way into our everyday lives and are designed to take over complex actions and make decisions for us as "personal assistants". These new AI helpers have many advantages - but what risks and legal issues should companies take into consideration?

One less annoying bureaucratic detail: The EU Commission has decided to discontinue the online dispute resolution platform (ODR platform) for consumer disputes on 31 December 2024.

When considering the extent to which companies need to train their employees and whether an AI officer is required in connection with the use of AI, the future reference point will be the Artificial Intelligence Act (commonly referred to as the AI Act). The key provision is Article 4 of the AI Act, which regulates the requirements for companies regarding their „AI literacy.“ Article 4 stipulates that providers and operators of AI systems must take measures to ensure an „adequate level of AI literacy” among their employees and other persons involved in the operation and use of AI systems on their behalf. In addition to technical knowledge, the law also specifies appropriate training to determine the adequate level of literacy.

The AI Act came into force in Augst 2024. The first wave of obligations arising from it are already applicable since the beginning of this February 2025. For companies using or intending to offer AI-based or AI-assisted products, determining whether the AI Act applies to them is crucial.

The rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has far-reaching impacts on all areas of life. The European Union (EU) has recognized that an appropriate legal framework is necessary to ensure the responsible use of AI and aims to be a leader in trustworthiness as well as innovation. For this reason, the AI Act has been enacted. The regulation, which has direct effect in the member states, sets clear rules and standards for dealing with AI models, AI systems, and AI content.

The development and deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) raises numerous legal questions – particularly regarding liability.

An environmentally conscious lifestyle is becoming increasingly important to consumers. Companies are therefore increasingly advertising with environmental claims

Every Year the International Bar Association hosts an Annual Conference; this year 2022 in Miami, FL. HÄRTING was represented by Marlene Schreiber, Niko Härting and Martin Schirmbacher.

In diesem Jahr erfolgten mit dem „Gesetz für faire Verbraucherverträge“, der Umsetzung der „Digitale-Inhalte-Richtlinie“ und der „Warenkaufrichtlinie“ einige grundlegende Gesetzesänderungen im Verbraucherprivatrecht (BGB).