Famous German Lawyers & Judges

Horst Mahler is a German former lawyer and political activist known for his extreme ideological shifts throughout his career. He started as a far-left militant and founding member of the Red Army Faction, later embracing Maoism before transitioning to neo-Nazism. He was a member of the National Democratic Party of Germany for a period. Mahler has faced multiple convictions for incitement of popular hatred and Holocaust denial, serving a twelve-year prison sentence. Despite attempts to evade further imprisonment, he was ultimately arrested and returned to jail to complete his sentence.

Gustav Ritter von Kahr was a German jurist and right-wing politician who held prominent positions such as district president of Upper Bavaria, Bavarian minister president, and Bavarian state commissioner general with dictatorial powers. He openly opposed the Weimar Republic government, including ceasing to enforce key laws and planning to overthrow the Reich government in Berlin. Following his involvement in the Beer Hall Putsch and subsequent fallout with Adolf Hitler, he continued his career as president of the Bavarian Administrative Court until his tragic murder during the Night of the Long Knives in 1934.

Roman Herzog was a prominent German politician, judge, and legal scholar. He served as the President of Germany from 1994 to 1999, making him the first president elected after the reunification of Germany. Prior to his presidency, Herzog was a respected judge of the Federal Constitutional Court, where he also held the position of President. Before his judicial career, he was a distinguished professor of law. Herzog was awarded the prestigious 1997 Charlemagne Prize for his significant contributions to European unity and development.

Fabian von Schlabrendorff was a distinguished German jurist, soldier, and member of the resistance against Adolf Hitler. He served as a judge of the German Federal Constitutional Court from 1967 to 1975. Throughout his professional life, he demonstrated a strong commitment to upholding the rule of law and fighting against tyranny. His courageous actions during World War II, including his involvement in the failed assassination attempt on Hitler, showcased his unwavering dedication to justice and his willingness to take bold risks in the face of injustice.

Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg is a German businessman and politician associated with the Christian Social Union (CSU). He served in various political roles, including as a member of the Bundestag, Secretary-General of the CSU, Federal Minister for Economics and Technology, and Federal Minister of Defense. His career was marred by a plagiarism scandal related to his doctoral dissertation, leading to his resignation from political positions. After leaving politics, he became involved in business and advisory roles, including founding Spitzberg Partners and re-entering German politics in 2017.

Ferdinand Lassalle was a prominent Prussian-German jurist, philosopher, socialist, and politician. He is renowned for being the pioneer of the social-democratic movement in Germany, having successfully organized a socialist party of action. Lassalle's impact was significant, with historians like Élie Halévy recognizing him as the first person in Germany and Europe to achieve this feat. He coined important terms such as the night-watchman state and iron law of wages, leaving a lasting influence on political and economic discourse.

Wolfgang Vogel was a prominent German lawyer who operated in East Germany during the Cold War. Known for his role in brokering high-profile spy swaps and exchanges of political prisoners between the Soviet bloc and the West, Vogel served as a crucial intermediary between the two opposing worlds for over three decades. His career epitomized the complexities and uncertainties of the era, drawing comparisons to the fictional works of renowned authors Len Deighton and John le Carré.

Gregor Florian Gysi is a prominent German attorney and politician known for his role in the transition of the Socialist Unity Party of Germany into the post-Communist Party of Democratic Socialism. He was the former president of the Party of the European Left and is affiliated with The Left political party. Gysi has been a key figure in the reformist wing of the Socialist Unity Party and has faced allegations regarding his involvement with the Stasi, which he strongly denies.

Karl Heinrich Ulrichs was a German lawyer, jurist, journalist, and writer known for his pioneering work in sexology and advocacy for gay rights. He is considered a trailblazer in the modern gay rights movement and has been labeled as the "first gay man in world history." Ulrichs dedicated his professional life to challenging societal norms and advocating for the rights and recognition of individuals who identified as homosexual. His writings and activism laid the foundation for the advancement of LGBTQ rights worldwide.

Karl Roland Freisler was a German jurist, judge, and politician who played a significant role in the Nazification of Germany's legal system. Serving as the State Secretary of the Reich Ministry of Justice and later as President of the People's Court, he promoted Nazi ideology through his work. Known for his aggressive demeanor in court, Freisler oversaw the prosecution of political crimes and frequently imposed the death penalty on defendants. His influence on German law can still be seen today in the definition of murder under Strafgesetzbuch § 211.

Friedrich Carl von Savigny was a prominent German jurist and historian known for his significant contributions to the field of legal philosophy. He played a key role in the development of the historical school of jurisprudence, emphasizing the importance of tradition and historical context in understanding the law. Savigny's work had a lasting impact on legal theory and practice, influencing generations of scholars and practitioners. His writings and teachings continue to be studied and respected in the fields of law and history.

Elke Büdenbender is a prominent German jurist known for her distinguished career in law. She has made significant contributions to the legal field through her expertise and experience. Büdenbender has established herself as a respected figure in the legal community, demonstrating a strong commitment to upholding justice and the rule of law. Her professional achievements reflect a dedication to excellence and a passion for promoting legal principles in society. Büdenbender's work exemplifies her commitment to advancing the legal profession and serving the public interest.

Ferdinand von Bismarck was a distinguished German lawyer and landowner. He belonged to the renowned family of statesman Otto von Bismarck and served as the head of the princely branch of the House of Bismarck. Throughout his professional life, Ferdinand von Bismarck demonstrated exceptional legal expertise and a deep understanding of land management. His contributions to the legal field and his role as a respected landowner solidified his reputation as a prominent figure within the Bismarck family lineage.

Theodor Storm was a prominent German-Frisian writer and poet known for his contributions to German realism. His professional life was defined by his literary works, which often focused on themes of nature, love, and the challenges of everyday life. Storm's writing style was characterized by its vivid imagery and emotional depth, earning him a reputation as one of the most significant figures in German literature. Throughout his career, he produced a substantial body of work that continues to be celebrated for its enduring impact and literary merit.

Samuel von Pufendorf was a versatile German scholar known for his contributions to jurisprudence, political philosophy, economics, and history. He was ennobled in 1694 by Charles XI of Sweden, shortly before his death. Pufendorf is renowned for his commentaries on natural law theories of prominent philosophers, such as Thomas Hobbes and Hugo Grotius. His political concepts influenced the American Revolution and he is regarded as a significant figure in the pre-Enlightenment era in Germany. Pufendorf faced challenges from clerical circles due to accusations of heresy, despite his adherence to traditional Christian beliefs.

Hans Luther was a prominent German politician who served as Chancellor of Germany for 482 days in 1925 to 1926. He played a crucial role as Minister of Finance in stabilizing the Mark during the hyperinflation crisis of 1923. Luther later served as the head of the Reichsbank from 1930 to 1933, contributing to financial stability in Germany. Subsequently, he took on the role of German Ambassador to the United States from 1933 to 1937, representing his country on the international stage.

Henriette Reker is a German lawyer and independent politician known for her pro-immigration stance. In 2015, she survived an assassination attempt and was elected as the mayor of Cologne the following day, making history as the city's first female mayor. Reker was re-elected in 2020, continuing to serve in her role. Her professional life is characterized by her dedication to public service, advocacy for immigration issues, and leadership in the political landscape of Cologne.

Francis Daniel Pastorius was a versatile professional known for his roles as an educator, lawyer, poet, and public official. He is most notably recognized as the founder of Germantown, Pennsylvania, which later became part of Philadelphia. Pastorius played a crucial role in establishing the first permanent German-American settlement in the area, serving as a gateway for future emigrants from Germany. His diverse career showcased his dedication to education, legal expertise, literary pursuits, and civic leadership, leaving a lasting impact on early German-American history.

Georg Konrad Morgen was an SS judge and lawyer who investigated crimes in Nazi concentration camps, rising to SS-Sturmbannführer. Post-war, he testified in anti-Nazi trials and resumed his legal career in Frankfurt. Known as a Blutrichter, he had the authority to issue death penalties, leading to the nickname 'Bloodhound Judge' for his unwavering pursuit of justice. Morgen's professional life was defined by his role in investigating atrocities and his dedication to upholding the law, both during and after the war.

Alexander Kluge is a prominent figure in German culture, known for his diverse talents and contributions. As an author, he has written numerous books exploring various themes and genres. His work as a philosopher delves into complex ideas and theories, offering unique perspectives on society and human experience. In academia, Kluge has shared his knowledge and insights with students as a teacher and lecturer. Additionally, he has made significant contributions to the world of film as a director, creating thought-provoking works that challenge conventions and provoke critical thinking.

Wilhelm Marx was a prominent German judge, politician, and member of the Catholic Centre Party. Serving as Chancellor of Germany twice during the Weimar Republic, he also briefly held the position of Minister President of Prussia. With a total of 3 years and 73 days in office, he was the longest-serving chancellor of the Weimar Republic. Marx played a key role in navigating Germany through crises such as hyperinflation, war reparations, and successfully bringing the country into the League of Nations.

Hans Heinrich Lammers was a German jurist and prominent Nazi Party politician who served as Chief of the Reich Chancellery under Adolf Hitler from 1933 to 1945. In 1937, he was appointed Reichsminister in the cabinet. Following the 1948–1949 Ministries Trial, Lammers was found guilty of crimes against peace, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and membership in a criminal organization. He was initially sentenced to 20 years in prison but later had his sentence reduced to 10 years and was released early.

Berthold Schenk Graf von Stauffenberg was a German lawyer who played a prominent role in the plot to assassinate Adolf Hitler in 1944. Alongside his brother, Colonel Claus Schenk Graf von Stauffenberg, he was a key conspirator in the failed assassination attempt. Berthold's professional life was marked by his involvement in the anti-Hitler resistance movement, which ultimately led to his trial and execution by the Nazi regime. His actions demonstrated his commitment to opposing the oppressive regime and fighting for a better future for Germany.

Gustav Radbruch was a prominent German legal scholar and politician known for his role as Minister of Justice during the early Weimar era. He made significant contributions to legal philosophy and is considered one of the most influential figures of the 20th century in this field. Radbruch's work continues to be studied and respected for its impact on legal theory. His expertise and leadership in both academia and government left a lasting legacy in shaping legal thought and practice.

Bernhard Schlink is a prominent figure in the fields of law, academia, and literature. As a German lawyer, he has established a reputation for his expertise in legal matters. In academia, Schlink has contributed significantly through his scholarly work and research. However, it is his career as a novelist that has garnered him widespread acclaim, particularly for his bestselling novel The Reader, published in 1995. Schlink's literary achievements have earned him prestigious awards, such as the 2014 Park Kyong-ni Prize, solidifying his status as a highly respected author.

Albert Battel was a German Army lieutenant and lawyer known for his brave resistance against the Nazi plans to liquidate the Przemyśl Jewish ghetto during World War II. His actions demonstrated his strong moral character and commitment to justice. Battel's courageous stand against the atrocities of the Nazi regime resulted in him being posthumously honored as Righteous Among the Nations in 1981. His professional life was marked by a dedication to upholding human rights and standing up against injustice, making him a symbol of bravery and integrity.

Manfred Gerlach was a prominent German jurist and politician known for his leadership in the East German Liberal Democratic Party. He served as Chairman of the Council of State, making him the head of state of East Germany during a pivotal period from December 1989 to April 1990. Gerlach's professional life was marked by his dedication to political service and his role in shaping the political landscape of East Germany during a period of significant change and transition.

Daniel Paul Schreber was a German judge known for his personal account of his experiences with schizophrenia. He underwent three distinct periods of acute mental illness, with the first being diagnosed as dementia praecox. His second illness, spanning from 1893 to 1902, is detailed in his book "Memoirs of My Nervous Illness." Schreber's professional life was intertwined with his struggles with mental illness, as he was treated by several medical professionals during this time, including Paul Flechsig, Pierson, and Guido Weber.

Patrick M. Knapp-Schwarzenegger is an Austrian-American attorney, businessman, and investor with a prominent presence in Los Angeles, California. He has established himself as a respected figure in the legal and business communities, utilizing his expertise to navigate complex legal matters and facilitate successful investment opportunities. With a keen focus on strategic decision-making and a strong dedication to his professional pursuits, Knapp-Schwarzenegger has built a reputation as a skilled attorney and savvy investor within the competitive landscape of Los Angeles.

John Peter Altgeld was a prominent American politician who served as the Governor of Illinois from 1893 to 1897. He was known for his progressive stance and advocacy for workplace safety and child labor laws. Altgeld made significant decisions such as pardoning men involved in the Haymarket Affair and refusing to use force against the Pullman strike. He also played a key role in the progressive wing of the Democratic Party, opposing conservative elements. Altgeld's career included roles as a lawyer, real estate developer, and local judge.

Otto Rasch was a prominent German Nazi official known for his role as the commander of Einsatzgruppe C in northern and central Ukraine during World War II. As a high-ranking member of the Nazi regime, he played a significant part in carrying out the Holocaust and other war crimes. Rasch was later indicted for his involvement in these atrocities at the Einsatzgruppen trial, although the case was ultimately discontinued due to medical reasons. His professional life was characterized by his leadership in perpetrating acts of violence and genocide during the war.

Friedrich Hecker was a prominent German lawyer, politician, and revolutionary known for his eloquent speeches and revolutionary activities during the 1848 Revolution. He later emigrated to the United States where he played a significant role as a brigade commander in the Union Army during the American Civil War. He was recognized for his leadership and dedication to the cause, showcasing his skills beyond politics and law. Friedrich Hecker's professional journey reflects his commitment to fighting for justice and freedom both in Germany and the United States.

Gerhard Klopfer was a lawyer and a high-ranking official in the Nazi Party, serving as the State Secretary in the Party Chancellery under Martin Bormann. He held the rank of SS-Gruppenführer and played a significant role in the Wannsee Conference, where plans for the implementation of the Final Solution were discussed. Despite his involvement in these events, Klopfer later denied any knowledge of the Holocaust and avoided prosecution for his actions during World War II.

Hartley Shawcross was an English barrister and Labour politician known for his significant roles in international justice and diplomacy. He served as the lead British prosecutor at the Nuremberg War Crimes tribunal, seeking justice for atrocities committed during World War II. Shawcross also represented Britain at the United Nations post-WWII and held the prestigious position of Attorney General for England. His legal expertise and dedication to upholding the rule of law made him a respected figure in both domestic and international arenas.

Georg Jellinek was a prominent German public lawyer known for his significant contributions to the field of public law. He was highly regarded as an expert in Austrian public law and gained recognition as "the exponent of public law in Austria." Jellinek's professional life was marked by his scholarly work, which had a lasting impact on legal theory and practice. His writings and teachings influenced generations of legal scholars and practitioners, solidifying his reputation as a leading authority in the realm of public law.

Helmuth James Graf von Moltke was a German jurist and member of the Abwehr during World War II. He actively worked to oppose human rights abuses by the Nazi regime in occupied territories. As a founding member of the Kreisau Circle, he advocated for a post-Hitler Germany based on moral and democratic principles. Despite his efforts to resist the government of Adolf Hitler, Moltke was executed by the Nazis for treason due to his involvement in discussions opposing the regime.

Franz Walter Stahlecker was a high-ranking SS officer who served as the commander of the SS security forces in the Reichskommissariat Ostland during 1941-42. He led Einsatzgruppe A, one of the most lethal death squads responsible for mass killings in German-occupied Eastern Europe during the Holocaust. Stahlecker's tenure was marked by extreme brutality and violence, targeting innocent civilians. His career came to an end when he was fatally wounded by Soviet partisans in action, leading to his replacement by Heinz Jost.

Ferdinand von Schirach is a renowned German lawyer and writer who gained widespread recognition for his literary works. He achieved significant success in his career when he published his initial collection of short stories at the age of forty-five, establishing himself as one of Germany's most accomplished authors. His books have been translated into over 35 languages and have garnered millions of readers globally, solidifying his reputation as an internationally acclaimed figure in German literature.

Günther Hermann Oettinger is a German lawyer and politician affiliated with the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the European People's Party (EPP). He has held various prominent roles such as European Commissioner for Budget and Human Resources, European Commissioner for Digital Economy and Society, and European Commissioner for Energy. Prior to his European roles, Oettinger served as Minister-President of Baden-Württemberg and chairman of the CDU Baden-Württemberg. Currently, he is the president of the German private university EBS Universität für Wirtschaft und Recht in Wiesbaden.

Justus Möser was a prominent German jurist and social theorist known for his significant contributions to the fields of law and social theory. His innovative work on the history of Osnabrück emphasized social and cultural aspects, setting him apart as a thoughtful and insightful writer. Möser's writings have had a lasting impact on the understanding of societal development and the role of culture in shaping communities. His legacy continues to be celebrated for its depth and originality in addressing complex social issues.

Christian Thomasius was a prominent German jurist and philosopher known for his influential contributions to legal philosophy and education. He established himself as a leading figure in the movement toward a more accessible and practical legal system, advocating for the use of vernacular language in legal texts. Thomasius played a key role in shaping legal education in Germany, emphasizing reason and rationality in legal reasoning. His work had a lasting impact on the development of legal theory and practice in Europe.

Hugo Preuß was a prominent German lawyer and liberal politician known for his significant contribution to the drafting of the Weimar Constitution. He emphasized key principles such as popular sovereignty, federal organization of the state, and the establishment of a democratic Rechtsstaat. Preuß played a pivotal role in shaping the legal and political landscape of Germany during his career. His work on the constitution reflected his commitment to democratic values and the rule of law, leaving a lasting impact on the country's governance structure.

Justus Jonas, the Elder, was a prominent German Lutheran theologian and reformer. He excelled as a jurist, professor, and hymn writer during his professional career. Jonas is most renowned for his significant translations of the works of Martin Luther and Philipp Melanchthon, contributing greatly to the spread of Protestant theology. He played a crucial role in the Reformation movement, working closely with Martin Luther and providing support until Luther's final moments. Jonas' dedication to theological scholarship and advocacy for reform had a lasting impact on religious history.

Wilhelm Heinrich Wackenroder was a notable German jurist and writer who played a key role in co-founding the German Romantic movement alongside Ludwig Tieck and the Schlegel brothers. Through his works and collaborations, Wackenroder made significant contributions to the development of Romanticism in Germany. His writings often focused on artistic and philosophical themes, emphasizing the importance of imagination, emotion, and creativity. Wackenroder's professional endeavors helped shape the cultural landscape of his time and continue to influence literary and artistic movements to this day.

Caspar Rudolph Ritter von Jhering was a German jurist renowned for his influential work "Der Kampf ums Recht" (The Struggle for Law) published in 1872. He is recognized as a significant legal scholar who founded a modern sociological and historical school of law. Jhering's ideas have had a lasting impact on the development of the "jurisprudence of interests" in Germany, solidifying his legacy as a pivotal figure in legal theory and practice.

Josel of Rosheim, a 16th-century German Jewish advocate, was a prominent shtadlan known for championing the rights of German Jews. Originally from Czech-France, he was a respected rabbi and money lender before dedicating himself to advocating for his community. Josel is remembered for his tireless efforts to combat anti-Semitism, using his influence and diplomatic skills to defend and protect the Jewish population in Germany. His legacy includes a significant impact on improving the status and treatment of Jews during a turbulent period in European history.

Adam von Trott zu Solz was a German lawyer and diplomat known for his involvement in the conservative resistance against Nazism. He was a vocal opponent of the Nazi regime and played a key role in the Kreisau Circle, a group dedicated to discussing plans for a post-Nazi Germany. Trott was part of the 20 July plot to assassinate Hitler and was slated to be appointed Secretary of State in the Foreign Office had the plot succeeded, tasked with negotiating with the Western Allies.

Countess Walburga Habsburg Douglas is a prominent figure in Swedish politics and law. She served as a member of the Riksdag of Sweden for the Moderate Party from 2006 to 2014. Additionally, she holds the position of vice-president of the Paneuropean Union and is a board member of the Institute for Information on the Crimes of Communism. With her extensive experience in politics and law, Countess Douglas has made significant contributions to various organizations and institutions, solidifying her reputation as a respected and influential figure in her field.

Theodor Julius Geiger was a prominent German socialist, lawyer, and sociologist known for his research in Sociology of Law, social stratification, social mobility, methodology, and intelligentsia. He made significant contributions to the field of sociology during his tenure as Denmark's first professor of sociology at the University of Århus. Geiger's work focused on understanding the complexities of society, particularly in relation to social structures and dynamics. His expertise and scholarly endeavors have left a lasting impact on the understanding of sociological phenomena.

Walter Simons was a prominent German lawyer and politician known for his significant contributions to the Weimar Republic. He served as the Foreign Minister from 1920 to 1921, playing a key role in international relations during a crucial period. Following his tenure as Foreign Minister, Simons went on to become the president of the Reichsgericht, the highest court in Germany, from 1922 to 1929. His legal expertise and leadership skills were instrumental in shaping the legal and political landscape of his time.

Friedrich Leopold zu Stolberg-Stolberg was a German lawyer, translator, and poet associated with the Sturm und Drang and early Romantic periods. He was born in Bramstedt, Holstein. Stolberg-Stolberg's professional life was marked by his legal expertise, literary translations, and contributions to the poetic movements of his time. His work reflects a deep engagement with the cultural and intellectual currents of late 18th and early 19th-century Germany, establishing him as a significant figure in the literary landscape of the era.

Gerhart Moritz Riegner was a prominent German philosopher and the secretary-general of the World Jewish Congress from 1965 to 1983. He played a crucial role in advocating for Jewish rights and raising awareness about issues affecting the Jewish community worldwide. Riegner's expertise in law, gained from his studies in Heidelberg, Paris, and at the Geneva Graduate Institute, provided a solid foundation for his impactful work within the organization. He dedicated his professional life to promoting justice, equality, and human rights for the Jewish population.

Hans von Dohnanyi was a German jurist known for his significant role in aiding Jews to escape Germany during the Nazi era. He utilized his position within the Abwehr to assist in these efforts and also collaborated with the German resistance movement against the oppressive Nazi regime. Following the unsuccessful 20 July Plot to assassinate Hitler, Dohnanyi was falsely accused of being the mastermind behind the conspiracy and subsequently executed by the SS in 1945.

Anton Rintelen was an Austrian academic, jurist, and politician associated with the Christian Social Party. He served as Landeshauptmann of Styria and Minister of Education, as well as President of the Federal Council of Austria. Rintelen founded and led the Steirer Bank and had close ties to right-wing militia leaders. He later became involved in a Nazi coup d'état plot and was appointed Ambassador to Italy. Despite a failed coup attempt, he survived and was sentenced to life imprisonment for high treason. Released in 1938, he withdrew from politics and passed away in 1946.

Georg Friedrich Puchta was a prominent German legal scholar known for his contributions to jurisprudence and civil law theory. He served as a professor of law at various universities, including the University of Berlin and the University of Leipzig. Puchta's work focused on the development of legal concepts and principles, particularly in the areas of property law, contracts, and civil procedure. He was a leading figure in the historical school of jurisprudence and played a significant role in shaping legal thought during the 19th century.

Rudolf Stammler was an influential German philosopher of law who made significant contributions to legal theory. He emphasized the distinction between a purely formal concept of law and the ideal of justice, advocating for the deliberate steering of law towards the current ideal rather than simply reacting to economic pressures. Stammler's work focused on the intersection of law and ethics, highlighting the importance of moral principles in legal systems. His ideas continue to shape discussions on legal philosophy and jurisprudence.

Eduard Gans was a German jurist who studied law at prestigious universities and was deeply influenced by Hegel's philosophy. He converted to the Evangelical Church in Prussia and became a prominent professor at Berlin University. Gans applied historical methods to jurisprudence, particularly focusing on the right of succession. His work, "Erbrecht in weltgeschichtlicher Entwicklung," is highly regarded for its detailed examination of legal principles. Gans faced challenges due to his liberal views on political matters, but he continued to contribute significantly to legal scholarship through various writings and edited works.

Rudolf von Gneist was a prominent German jurist and politician known for his significant influence in legal and political spheres. He played a key role in shaping the professional development of his student Max Weber and also made notable contributions to Japan's first constitution through his collaboration with Itō Hirobumi. Gneist's expertise and insights in the field of law and politics earned him a reputation as a respected figure in both academia and government, leaving a lasting legacy in legal scholarship and constitutional governance.

Werner Maihofer was a distinguished German jurist and legal philosopher. He held the position of Germany's Federal Minister of the Interior from 1974 to 1978. Maihofer's tenure was marked by significant contributions to legal and political discourse. However, his career faced a setback when he resigned following a scandal related to the unauthorized wiretapping of Klaus Traube. Despite this controversy, Maihofer's professional legacy remains noteworthy for his insights into legal philosophy and his service in high-level governmental roles.

Georg Friedrich von Martens was a distinguished German diplomat and jurist known for his significant contributions in the field of international law. He began his career as a legal theory professor at Göttingen before being ennobled in 1789. Over the years, he held prestigious positions such as counsellor of state for the King of Westphalia in 1808 and privy cabinet-councillor for the King of Hanover in 1814. Martens' expertise and diplomatic skills earned him a reputation as a respected figure in international relations and legal circles.

Josef Kohler was a prominent German jurist, known for his significant contributions to legal theory and philosophy. He served as a professor at various universities, including the University of Berlin and the University of Tübingen, where he taught Roman law and jurisprudence. Kohler's work focused on the intersection of law and economics, particularly in the fields of commercial law and intellectual property. He was also a prolific author and poet, with many of his writings exploring the complexities of legal reasoning and the nature of justice.

Johann von Wowern was a German statesman, philologist, and lawyer known for his groundbreaking work in 1603 titled De Polymathia tractatio, which was the first in Western Europe to use the term "polymath" in its title. He defined polymathy as a diverse knowledge drawn from various studies, encompassing a wide range of disciplines. Von Wowern's work highlighted erudition, literature, philology, philomathy, and polyhistory as synonymous with polymathy, showcasing his deep understanding and contributions to intellectual pursuits.

L. F. L. Oppenheim was a prominent German jurist known as the father of modern international law. His work, especially the two-volume treatise "International Law: A Treatise," has had a significant impact on the field of international law. He is credited with shaping the hard legal positivist school of thought within international law. Oppenheim's contributions inspired other notable legal scholars such as Joseph Raz and Prosper Weil. His legacy continues to influence the study and practice of international law to this day.

Johann Anton Leisewitz was a prominent German lawyer and dramatic poet known for his significant contributions during the Sturm und Drang era. His play "Julius of Taranto" is celebrated for its influence on Friedrich Schiller and is recognized as a precursor to Schiller's renowned work "The Robbers." Leisewitz's professional life was marked by his innovative writings and critical role in shaping the literary landscape of his time. He remains a central figure in the history of German literature, leaving a lasting impact on the dramatic genre.

Ernst Ludwig von Gerlach was a prominent Prussian politician, editor, and judge known for his role in founding and leading the Conservative Party in Prussia. He served as the leader of the party in the Prussian House of Representatives for many years. Alongside his brother Leopold von Gerlach, he was part of the influential circle associated with the Neue Preußische Zeitung, also known as the Kreuzzeitung, where he played a key role in its establishment.

Rudolf Hermann Brandt was a German SS officer and civil servant, serving from 1933 to 1945. He was a lawyer by profession and acted as the Personal Administrative Officer to Reichsführer-SS Heinrich Himmler. Brandt played a significant role in the Doctors' Trial at Nuremberg, where he was a defendant for his involvement in securing victims for the Jewish skull collection project. He was convicted of war crimes and crimes against humanity, leading to his execution in 1948. Brandt's professional life was intertwined with the atrocities committed during the Nazi regime.

Hans Mayer was a versatile German literary scholar known for his expertise in jurisprudence and social research. He gained international acclaim for his roles as a critic, author, and musicologist, showcasing a broad range of intellectual pursuits. His professional life was marked by a deep commitment to exploring and analyzing literature, society, and music, making significant contributions to each field. Mayer's work reflected a keen intellect and a passion for interdisciplinary study, solidifying his reputation as a respected and influential figure in academia.

Max Forckenbeck was a prominent German lawyer and liberal politician known for his prudent governing style. He served as Mayor of Berlin from 1878 until his death, overseeing the city's growth as the capital of a unified Germany. Forckenbeck played key roles in various political organizations and movements, including the German Progress Party and the National Liberal Party. He focused on promoting free trade, economic freedom, and urban development initiatives during his tenure as Mayor, leaving a lasting impact on Berlin's infrastructure and governance.