Bekrachtiging

In Dutch law, ratification is the act whereby a party confirms a legal act that was originally voidable—such as a contract concluded under mistake, duress or by a minor—thereby rendering it valid with retroactive effect and precluding any subsequent avoidance.

This mechanism enables the parties to cure a defective legal act without having to conclude a fresh agreement. It promotes legal certainty and avoids unnecessary litigation or renegotiation.

In practice, ratification is commonly invoked in transactions where a party subsequently gives express consent to the terms, for instance upon attaining the age of majority or once the effects of mistake have ceased to operate.