Inspection of files by parties

(1) The authority must permit the parties to inspect the files relating to the procedure, insofar as knowledge of them is required to assert or defend their legal interests. The first sentence does not apply, until the conclusion of the administrative procedure, to drafts of decisions and the work done in their direct preparation. Insofar as representation takes place under sections 17 and 18, only the representatives are entitled to inspect the files.
(2) The authority is not obliged to permit inspection of the files insofar as this would impair the proper performance of the authority's functions, the disclosure of the content of the files would cause disadvantage to the welfare of the Federation or of a Land, or insofar as the matters must be kept secret under a statute or by their nature, in particular because of the legitimate interests of the parties or of third persons.
(3) Inspection of the files takes place at the authority that keeps the files. In the individual case, inspection may also take place at another authority, or at a diplomatic or consular representation of the Federal Republic of Germany abroad; the authority that keeps the files may permit further exceptions.