perekonnaõiguses

Perekonnaõigus, meaning family law in Estonian, is a branch of private law that governs the legal relationships between individuals within a family. It encompasses a wide range of matters, including marriage, divorce, child custody, adoption, and the rights and obligations of family members. The primary aim of family law is to protect the interests of family members, particularly those of children, and to ensure a stable and orderly family life.

In Estonia, family law is primarily regulated by the Family Law Act (Perekonnaseadus). This act sets out the legal framework for various family-related issues. For instance, marriage in Estonia requires individuals to be of legal age and to consent to the union. Divorce proceedings can be initiated by mutual consent or due to irreconcilable differences, with courts considering the welfare of children when making decisions about custody and financial support.

Child-related matters are a significant focus of family law. This includes establishing paternity, determining parental custody and visitation rights, and ensuring that parents fulfill their child support obligations. Adoption is also regulated by family law, providing a legal pathway for individuals to become parents to children who are not biologically theirs. Perekonnaõigus also addresses issues such as inheritance rights among family members and the legal consequences of cohabitation, although the legal framework for unmarried couples may differ from that of married couples. The overarching principle is to provide legal clarity and protection for individuals within the family unit.