edunvalvojina

Edunvalvoja is a person appointed to safeguard the financial and legal interests of another person who cannot manage these affairs themselves, such as an adult with diminished decision-making capacity or a minor. The form edunvalvojina refers to acting in the capacity of such guardians.

In Finland, edunvalvonta is governed by legislation on guardianship and is supervised by the relevant guardianship authority. A guardian may be a family member, spouse, friend, or a professional trustee or institution. Guardians are typically appointed by a district court or guardianship authority after an assessment of the person’s ability to manage their affairs.

The duties of an edunvalvoja include managing assets and income, paying bills and debts, handling contracts and legal proceedings on behalf of the ward, applying for social benefits, and keeping careful records. The guardian must act in the ward’s best interests, protect the ward’s property, and regularly report to the guardianship authority, including providing annual accounts and any significant decisions.

Rights and limitations accompany the role. The ward’s personal rights are generally preserved, but major financial decisions—such as selling real estate or taking on large loans—often require the guardian’s consent, and in some cases court approval. The guardian should consider the ward’s preferences whenever possible and seek to preserve the ward’s dignity and autonomy.

Termination and oversight. Guardianship can be temporary or permanent and ends if the ward regains capacity, dies, or if the guardian is replaced or removed by the court for neglect or abuse. The guardianship authority monitors activities and can mandate changes to ensure accountability and proper representation.