What does "natural person" refer to in legal terms?

In legal terms, a "natural person" refers specifically to an individual human being. This distinction is important because it differentiates individuals from other types of legal entities, such as corporations or organizations, which are considered "juridical persons." A natural person possesses rights and obligations under the law, such as the ability to enter into contracts, sue or be sued, and own property.

The context of the term "natural person" is significant in various legal scenarios, including civil and criminal law, where individuals are held accountable in ways that legal entities are not. Understanding this distinction helps clarify how the law treats individuals versus organizations, which is crucial when navigating legal processes such as civil action or criminal charges.

In contrast, legal entities like businesses or government organizations, while they can act in a legal capacity, do not have the same rights and responsibilities as an individual person, making it essential to know these terms to interpret legal documents and proceedings correctly.