Hüvitist

Hüvitist is a term used in Estonian law and everyday language to refer to compensation or benefit. It encompasses a broad range of financial payments intended to offset a loss, compensate for damage, or provide support. The specific nature of a hüvitist is determined by the context in which it is awarded or granted.

In the legal sphere, hüvitist can be awarded in civil cases to compensate a party for damages suffered due to the wrongful actions of another. This might include compensation for material losses, such as property damage or lost income, as well as non-material losses like pain and suffering. The principle behind such hüvitist is to restore the injured party to the position they would have been in had the harm not occurred, to the extent possible through monetary means.

Beyond legal damages, the term hüvitist also applies to various statutory benefits and allowances provided by the state or employers. These can include compensation for work-related injuries or illnesses, maternity or parental benefits, and severance pay upon termination of employment. In these instances, hüvitist serves as a form of social security or a contractual obligation, ensuring a degree of financial stability for individuals facing specific life events or employment changes. The calculation and eligibility for these types of hüvitist are typically governed by specific legislation or employment contracts.