The medical instrument comprises a proximal handle (3) for controlling a distal tool. The handle (3) comprises two grip pieces (4, 5) which are arranged in a pivotably movable manner relative to one another, are subjected to spring force and are coupled in movement to one another via a path guide (11, 14), wherein the path guide (11, 14) comprises a path component (7) which comprises a guide path (11), and a guide body (14) on a guide component (8), said guide body engaging into the guide path (11). The components (7, 8) are arranged on one of the grip pieces (4, 5) and are subjected to spring force to one another transversely to a pivoting plane of the grip pieces (4, 5). One of the components (8) is pivotably arranged on a grip piece (4, 5). At least one latching position, in which the pivoting movement of the grip pieces (4, 5) is blocked in one direction, is formed between the components (7, 8). In a manner which is functionally independent of the guide body (14) and guide path (11), a latching body (12) and at least one latching receiver (16) which receives the latching body (12) in a latching position are provided on the components (7, 8) for the latching function.
