haltuunotto

Haltuunotto is a legal term in Finnish law referring to the act by which authorities take possession of a person’s property or assets to secure a claim or to prevent loss, damage, or illegality, pending further judicial or administrative proceedings. The measure is intended as a temporary, precautionary step that preserves the right of a creditor or public authority to enforce a decision or remedy.

Haltuunotto may be ordered in contexts such as debt enforcement, tax or social security claims, or to secure assets related to a legal dispute. It is typically carried out by a bailiff or another competent authority under the enforcement framework; in urgent cases, police or customs authorities may seize items with later confirmation by a court or administrative decision. The owner or possessor remains the legal owner but may be restricted from using, transferring, or disposing of the item while it is under haltuunotto.

The scope of haltuunotto covers movable property (for example vehicles, equipment, cash or bank funds) and can, in certain circumstances, affect real estate or bank accounts, always proportionate to the objective. The measure is subject to checks and can be challenged; the affected party can appeal or request release or compensation if the haltuunotto is wrongful or unduly broad.

Haltuunotto is distinct from takavarikointi, which is seizure primarily for criminal investigations, and from final confiscation or expropriation that transfers title. It is one of several enforcement tools used to safeguard rights during proceedings.