The conclusion of a contract takes place in several stages and can be divided into the pre-contractual and contractual phases.

In the pre-contractual phase, information is typically gathered, negotiations take place, a letter of intent is drafted, a pre-contract is concluded, and offers are made.

This phase is followed by the contractual phase, in which the contract is concluded and fulfilled. The following aspects are covered in detail: negotiations, the time and place of contract conclusion, the effects of silence on the acceptance of an offer, as well as the concepts of an offer and a pre-contract. Additionally, the effects of offer acceptance and general terms and conditions of business are presented.