Compulsory schooling violated: fine for truancy

Compulsory schooling is regulated in the school laws of the federal states. Unexcused absence can be punished as an administrative offense with a fine, against parents or older students. It is important to excuse absences in time and react to a hearing objectively.

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Compulsory schooling and the consequences of a violation are regulated by the state school laws. Unexcused absence can be punished as an administrative offense with a fine; in cases of persistent refusal, further measures are possible.

Excused absences (illness with a medical note, approved leave of absence) are not a violation. Against a fine notice you can file an objection within two weeks and set out the reasons.

What you should do now

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1. Excuse absences
Report illness in time and submit medical notes; apply for leave of absence in time and in writing.
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2. Take the hearing seriously
React to a hearing by the authority objectively and describe the reasons for the absences.
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3. Check an objection
For a fine notice you can file an objection within two weeks if the absences were excused.
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4. Address the causes
For repeated school absenteeism, talking with the school, school social work and youth welfare office helps to clarify the causes.

How to spot the scam

Absences are not excused or excused too late.
A leave of absence (e.g. vacation before the holidays) is taken without approval.
The short objection deadline against the fine notice is overlooked.

Frequently asked questions

When does a fine for violating compulsory schooling threaten?

For unexcused absence from class. This can be punished as an administrative offense with a fine, depending on age against the parents or the students themselves. The details are regulated by the state school laws.

What counts as an excused absence?

Illness that you report in time and substantiate with a medical note, as well as approved leaves of absence. Unauthorized 'vacation', for example extended holidays, is by contrast unexcused and can trigger a fine.

How do I react to a fine notice?

Check whether the absences were really unexcused. If the absence was excused or special reasons exist, you can file an objection within two weeks and present the evidence.

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.