Equality Before The Law : Germany

The principle of equality has only gradually been applied. In 1957 a law was introduced which gave women equal rights where matrimonial property was concerned. Then, in 1977, their position with regard to marriage, divorce and family was improved so that, for instance, the question of guilt in divorce cases no longer applied. Now the only criterion is whether the marriage has irreparably broken down. In addition, divorcees now share pension entitlements.