Entitlement and form
Review of what exactly you are entitled to and in what form.
Employment reference
Berlin and across Germany
Employment References – Lawyer
Wording, grading, and entitlement in Germany
If the employment reference is not acceptable, the usual questions are whether the wording, grading, or completeness can be corrected and how strongly the reference may affect future career steps.
These are usually the points that matter most in employment disputes:
- ›Review of entitlement, completeness, and substantive meaning
- ›Assessment of problematic wording or grading
- ›Evaluation of the negotiation position vis-a-vis the employer
- ›Clear lawyer guidance on the most sensible next step
You receive clear guidance on whether the reference should be corrected or renegotiated.
Important: In separation scenarios, the reference is often more important in practice than it first appears.
Full service in English language
What an employment-reference review usually covers
Wording and grading
Assessment of whether wording or grading is problematic.
Separation context
Evaluation of how the reference connects to dismissal or a separation agreement.
Correction or negotiation
Clear guidance on how corrections can sensibly be pursued.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have a poor reference reviewed?
Yes. Review is often useful where the wording or grading is problematic.
Is it only about the grade?
No. Completeness, structure, and wording can be just as important.
Is this often linked to dismissal or a separation agreement?
Yes. The reference is often part of a broader exit arrangement.
Should I have the reference reviewed early?
Usually yes, so that correction requests can be raised in time and in a structured way.
Is this part of general employment law?
Yes. Reference disputes are a classic employment-law separation issue.
Mandant
a week ago
Highly competent and professional advice. Dr. Lerch works in a structured, efficient, and solution-oriented manner. I was particularly impressed by his ability to clearly and concisely explain complex legal issues and derive concrete courses of action from them. Agreements were reliably kept, feedback was prompt, and communication was consistently straightforward and professional. I was very satisfied with the advice and can wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Lerch!
Mandant
3 weeks ago
Dr. Lerch promptly returned my initial inquiry, and we were quickly able to schedule a personal consultation. He professionally addressed my concerns and took action. Any questions I had were answered quickly; he was friendly, empathetic, and offered a highly professional and honest opinion. I would definitely consult him again for legal advice.
Mandant
4 months ago
Mr. Lerch provided me with highly professional, calm, and dedicated support throughout my legal proceedings. I particularly appreciated his honest assessment of my case and the clear communication he maintained throughout the entire process. Thanks to his strategy and preparation, we achieved a significantly better outcome than originally anticipated in the penalty order. I felt well-advised and taken seriously at all times. I can therefore wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Lerch and thank him again for his support. B. Paal
How it works
Step 1
Send the documents and situation
You send the key documents and briefly explain the situation and any immediate time pressure.
Step 2
Have it legally reviewed
I review deadlines, legal challenge points, economic risks, and your negotiating position.
Step 3
Receive clear guidance
You receive clear guidance on which response or strategy makes sense.
Step 4
Implement the next steps
If further action makes sense, negotiation, correspondence, or court steps are implemented in a structured way.
About Dr. Lerch
Dr. Philipp Lerch advises clients with a focus on clear legal assessments, precise communication, and economically sensible outcomes. In reference disputes, it is often crucial to review not just the grade but the actual message conveyed by the wording.
Related topics
Separation agreement
If the reference wording is part of a separation negotiation.
Dismissal
If the reference is being negotiated in connection with a dismissal.
Employment law
The overview page for dismissal, compensation, and separation issues.
Checking a German employment reference
How employees can identify a complete reference and prepare specific requests for correction.