Germany has an efficient, document-driven route for undisputed debts that creditors use heavily before any full lawsuit.
The Mahnverfahren
The order-for-payment procedure (Mahnverfahren) is fast and largely automated. The court issues a payment order (Mahnbescheid); if the debtor does not object, it becomes an enforcement order (Vollstreckungsbescheid) — an enforceable title — without a full hearing.
If the debt is disputed
An objection moves the matter into ordinary litigation before the appropriate court, where a normal judgment is sought.
Enforcement
With a title, a bailiff (Gerichtsvollzieher) enforces against assets, and accounts or wages can be attached (Pfändung). A debtor can be required to give a sworn asset disclosure (Vermögensauskunft).
Cross-border recovery
The European Payment Order covers undisputed cross-border claims, and EU judgments are enforced in Germany under Brussels Ia.
For foreign creditors
A verified German colleague can file the Mahnverfahren, escalate if it is disputed, and instruct the bailiff — or enforce your foreign EU judgment.
Procedure and thresholds change — confirm with admitted German counsel.