Oikeaikäisen

Oikeaikäisen is a Finnish term that translates to "of legal age" or "adult" in English. It refers to a person who has reached the age of majority, which is typically 18 years old in Finland. Upon reaching this age, an individual is granted full legal rights and responsibilities, including the ability to enter into contracts, vote, marry without parental consent, and be held legally accountable for their actions as an adult.

The concept of oikeaikäisyyden is fundamental to Finnish law and society. It signifies a transition from childhood and legal dependency to full autonomy and participation in civic life. Before reaching the age of 18, individuals are considered minors and their legal affairs are often managed by parents or legal guardians. This distinction is crucial in various legal contexts, such as criminal law, family law, and contract law, where the rights and obligations of minors differ significantly from those of adults.

While the age of majority is set at 18, certain specific rights or responsibilities might have slightly different age thresholds or conditions attached. However, the general understanding of oikeaikäisen centers on the attainment of 18 years, marking a person's full legal adulthood in Finland.