Handlungsbevollmächtigung

Handlungsbevollmächtigter is a German legal term that translates to authorized representative or authorized agent. It refers to an individual who has been granted the power to act on behalf of another person or entity in specific business transactions or legal matters. This authority is typically granted through a formal appointment, often documented in writing, and can be broad or limited in scope depending on the terms of the authorization.

The Handlungsbevollmächtigter can be an employee of a company, a family member, or a professional such as a lawyer or an accountant. Their actions taken within the scope of their authority are legally binding on the principal, meaning the person or entity they represent. This concept is crucial in business, as it allows for efficient delegation of tasks and responsibilities. For instance, a store manager might be a Handlungsbevollmächtigter for the owner, able to purchase inventory or manage staff.

The scope of the Handlungsbevollmächtigung is paramount. If the authorization is limited to specific types of transactions, the representative cannot legally act outside those boundaries. Exceeding the granted authority can lead to the representative being held personally liable for their actions. German commercial law, specifically the Handelsgesetzbuch (HGB), provides regulations concerning the Handlungsbevollmächtigung, outlining the rights and obligations of both the authorized representative and the principal. This legal framework ensures clarity and accountability in commercial dealings involving authorized agents.