sopimuskelpoisuudessa

Sopimuskelpoisuus refers to the legal capacity to enter into binding agreements. In Finnish law, this concept is fundamental to the validity of contracts. Generally, individuals are presumed to have full contractual capacity unless specific legal provisions state otherwise. This capacity is typically attained at the age of majority, which is 18 years old in Finland.

However, there are circumstances where an individual’s capacity to contract may be limited or entirely absent. Minors, those under 18, generally have limited contractual capacity. While they can enter into agreements for everyday necessities or those related to their employment, larger or more significant contracts often require the consent of their legal guardian. Parents or appointed guardians are responsible for the legal affairs of minors.

Furthermore, individuals who are legally declared to be lacking capacity due to mental illness, intellectual disability, or severe addiction may have their contractual capacity restricted or removed by a court. In such cases, a guardian or trustee is appointed to manage their financial and legal matters, including entering into contracts on their behalf. The purpose of these provisions is to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation and ensure that agreements are entered into with a genuine understanding of their implications. The assessment of sopimuskelpoisuus is crucial for determining whether a contract is legally enforceable.