ABSTRACT
The roots of systematic distinction in Finnish law are mainly to be found in European continental law as represented by German law. Accordingly, under the Finnish civil law one of the main distinctions is between the law of obligations and the law of property. The law of obligations applies to relationships between contracting parties, that is, inter partes. On the other hand, property rights have been deemed to relate to objects and to be protected rights with regard to third parties. The principle of publicity is central in establishing rights under Finnish property law. This principle presupposes that legal effects extending to third parties must be distinctively manifested and the means to achieve publicity are, above aH, possession and registration. The purpose of the notice is to protect a third party relying on such indications of legaHy valid ownership.
