Vekâletle

Vekâletle is a Turkish term that translates to "by proxy" or "through power of attorney." It refers to the act of a person, known as the principal, granting another person, the agent or attorney-in-fact, the authority to act on their behalf in legal or financial matters. This authority is typically formalized through a legal document called a vekâletname, or power of attorney.

The scope of authority granted in a vekâletname can vary significantly. It can be broad, allowing the agent to handle a wide range of affairs, or specific, limiting the agent's powers to particular transactions or decisions. Common uses of vekâletle include authorizing someone to manage bank accounts, buy or sell property, represent the principal in legal proceedings, or make healthcare decisions.

A vekâletname can be made effective immediately upon signing or can be contingent upon a specific event, such as the principal's incapacitation. It can also be revoked by the principal at any time, provided they are mentally competent. In many jurisdictions, certain types of powers of attorney, particularly those that are durable (meaning they remain in effect even if the principal becomes incapacitated), require specific legal formalities for validity, such as notarization. The concept of vekâletle is fundamental to ensuring that individuals can manage their affairs even when they are unable to do so themselves.