The Family Enterprise Phenomenon in German Law

Moscow State Law University (MSAL), PhD (Law), Associate Professor The article analyzes the concept, characteristics and role of family enterprises in the German economy. The criterion of classifying enterprises as family enterprises is highlighted — the unity of ownership and management, i.e. family control, and its indicators are developed. The models of family enterprises are indicated. The concept of “enterprise” in various branches of German law is studied. The conclusion is made about the non-identity of its content in connection with various goals of legal regulation. The peculiarities of property relations between spouses as participants in a family enterprise, as well as the transition of the enterprise in the order of universal succession in the event of the death of one of the participants, are revealed.