Karin Luttermann

Laymen often have difficulty in understanding legal language. They criticize the fact that expressions of general language are used in a technical meaning with which they are not familiar. This can infringe on the constitutional principle of clarity and definiteness as it is laid down in article 103 section 2 ofthe German Constitution (Grundgesetz). This article describes how terms such as „violence'" (Gewalt), ,,threat" (Drohung) and „harm" (Übel) of § 240 section I German Penal Code (Strafgesetzbuch) are interpreted by experts and by laymen. The problem of comprehensibility in courtroom proceedings is also covered.