Täisealisuse

Täisealisus is the legal status of being an adult, signifying that a person has full civil capacity and is generally responsible for their actions under the law. In most jurisdictions, including Estonia, reaching the age of majority marks the transition from a minor to a täisealine, with corresponding rights and duties.

In Estonia the age of majority is 18 years. When a person turns 18, they acquire full legal capacity: they may make binding contracts, enter into legal transactions, and bear full criminal responsibility. They also gain eligibility to participate in elections and to exercise other fundamental rights that are reserved for adults. Until the age of 18, individuals are considered minors and are subject to protective measures and parental or guardian authority. The minor status can include delegated decision-making and limitations on certain acts, though emancipation by court can, in some cases, grant full capacity before turning 18.

The concept of täisealisus encompasses not only rights but also responsibilities, such as accountability in civil matters and criminal law. It interacts with other legal thresholds that apply to specific activities (for example, driving, employment, or access to certain services), which may have their own age requirements that are set separately from the general age of majority.

Overall, täisealisus defines when a person is recognized as an adult in the eyes of the law, with the corresponding ability to govern their own legal and personal affairs.