An introduction to the study of the German constitution, beginning with an overview of the essential features of the Basic Law of Germany. The book goes on to analyze a number of decisions of the German Constitutional Court and contrasts German constitutional law with the American model.

The Basic Law, Germany's Constitution, has been frequently and substantially changed since coming into force in 1949. The fourth edition of this book consolidates the original text with all amendments up to and including the 60th Amendment of December 2014. There have been no further amendments yet. Therefore, the edition represents the current status in July 2016. The translation is part of 'International Constitutional Law' (ICL), an internet project on comparative constitutional law. The most recent update to this text can be found at www.jurisprudentia.de.