teovõime

Teovõime is an Estonian term for the capacity to act, used to describe a person’s ability to perform legally valid deeds and to act autonomously in social life. It is closely tied to the notion of agency, covering both practical action and legal competence.

In philosophy and cognitive science, teovõime denotes agency: the capacity to form intentions, make decisions, and execute actions. It depends on cognitive and volitional factors and may be constrained by age, mental health, or social circumstances. The concept is linked to discussions of autonomy, responsibility, and rights, and it raises questions about when a person is capable of making binding or morally significant choices.

In Estonian law, teovõime is the basis for legal capacity. A person with full teovõime can enter into contracts, own property, sue and be sued, and dispose of assets without representation. Minors typically have restricted teovõime, and certain acts require parental consent or court-appointed guardians. People declared legally incapacitated due to mental disorder or severe disability may have guardians or limited representation to protect their interests. The age of majority (18) is generally when full teovõime is acquired, subject to exceptions and emancipated status.

Practically, teovõime is assessed for individual acts and can change over time. The concept intersects ethics, civil rights, and protection of vulnerable individuals, informing both everyday decision-making and formal legal proceedings.