õigusubjekt

õigusubjekt is a fundamental concept in law, referring to any entity that can hold rights and obligations and can participate in legal relations. This means an õigusubjekt is capable of suing and being sued, owning property, entering into contracts, and being held responsible for its actions. There are two primary categories of õigusubjekt: natural persons and legal persons.

A natural person is a human being. From birth until death, every individual is considered a natural person with legal capacity, meaning they can exercise their rights and fulfill their obligations. This capacity can be limited, for instance, due to age or mental state, but the status of being a natural person remains.

Legal persons, also known as juridical persons or artificial persons, are entities created by law that are granted the status of an õigusubjekt. These are not human beings but are recognized as distinct entities with their own rights and duties. Examples include corporations, foundations, associations, and state institutions. Legal persons act through their authorized representatives, such as directors or officers. The recognition of legal persons allows for collective action and ownership, facilitating complex economic and social activities. The ability to be an õigusubjekt is crucial for the functioning of any legal system, as it defines who can participate in and be bound by the law.