Edustettavan

Edustettavan is the genitive form of the Finnish noun edustettava, referring to the person who is to be represented or who is represented by another person in legal or formal matters. The term is used in official documents, court rulings, and everyday language in contexts of guardianship, power of attorney, or professional representation.

In Finnish civil law, a person who cannot manage their own affairs may have a representative, such as a guardian or a trustee. The edustettava's rights and interests are the focus of the representation, and the edustaja (the representative) acts on their behalf. The relationship is established through a legal instrument such as a guardianship order or a power of attorney. In decisions requiring the edustettavan's consent or expressed will, the representative should endeavor to reflect the will of the edustettava whenever possible.

The responsibilities of the edustaja include acting in the best interests of the edustettava, maintaining records, and reporting to authorities when required. The edustettava itself retains certain universal rights to the extent possible, such as dignity and participation in decisions affecting daily life. Legislation provides safeguards and oversight, including review of the representation and possibilities to amend or terminate it when the edustettava regains capacity or when a guardian is no longer necessary.

The term edustettavan is largely a formal, legal designation and appears in statutes, administrative decisions, and medical or social service documentation. In everyday language, it emphasizes the person on whose behalf another acts.