Verfügungsberechtigung

Verfügungsberechtigung refers to the legal authority to dispose of a right or property. It is a fundamental concept in property law and civil law jurisdictions, determining who has the power to transfer, encumber, or otherwise alter the legal status of an asset. Generally, the owner of a right or property possesses Verfügungungsberechtigung. However, this authority can also be vested in others under specific circumstances.

Situations where Verfügungungsberechtigung may exist beyond the direct owner include authorized representatives, such as those acting under a power of attorney, or legal guardians managing the affairs of minors or incapacitated individuals. In insolvency proceedings, the insolvency administrator acquires Verfügungungsberechtigung over the debtor's assets. Similarly, a pledgee or mortgagee may have limited Verfügungungsberechtigung over the collateral to enforce their security interest. The existence of Verfügungungsberechtigung is crucial for the validity of legal transactions affecting property. A transfer made without the necessary Verfügungungsberechtigung is typically void or voidable, meaning it can be challenged and potentially invalidated by a court. This principle ensures legal certainty and protects the rights of property owners.