Eraisik

Eraisik is the Estonian term for a private individual or private person, as opposed to a legal entity (juriidiline isik). In everyday language the word denotes a natural person acting in a private capacity rather than on behalf of a business or organization. In legal and administrative contexts eraisik is used alongside terms like füüsiline isik, which also refers to a natural person; eraisik emphasizes private status, whereas füüsiline isik is a more formal label.

Etymology and scope: The word is formed with the prefix er- meaning private or non-public, combined with isik meaning person. The concept marks a distinction between private individuals and organizations such as companies, foundations, or associations.

Legal status: In Estonian law, eraisik is the default status for individuals who are not registered as corporations or other legal entities. As a private person, an eraisik can enter contracts, own property, sue or be sued, and incur obligations, subject to applicable laws including contract, tax, and consumer protection rules.

Rights and obligations: Eraisik enjoys civil rights and bears corresponding duties. Differences from corporate actors often arise in areas like liability, taxation, and eligibility for certain protections or exemptions that apply to individuals rather than organizations.

Usage notes: The term is common in contracts, banking, insurance, and consumer transactions to indicate dealings by a private person for personal use. In formal contexts, füüsiline isik may be used interchangeably or preferred in official terminology.

See also: juridiline isik, füüsiline isik, consumer protection, contract law.