This paper introduces three basic approaches of digital signature legislation. The overall aim of these approaches is to establish a framework for trust and security in open networks. As nowadays distributed working and distributed businesses widely depend upon open netwoks, such frameworks can be understand as an enabler for the development of electronic commerce. The framework for the use of digital signatures and the framework for the corresponding ”trust infrastructure” according to the German Digital Signature Act is described in depth as an example for an accomplished legislative effort.