What is apparent authority?

Apparent authority refers to the situation where a third party perceives that an agent has the authority to act on behalf of a principal based on the principal's representations or conduct, even if that authority has not been explicitly granted. This concept is crucial in agency law because it protects third parties who rely on the representations made by the principal about the agent's authority.

For instance, if a principal allows an agent to act in a way that suggests the agent possesses certain powers—such as negotiating contracts or making purchases—the principal may be bound by the agent's actions if a third party reasonably believes the agent has that authority because of the principal's conduct. This means that the principal cannot later deny the agent's authority when the third party has relied on the principal's implied endorsement of that authority.

The other options refer to different aspects of authority. Explicit authority typically involves a clear, formal agreement or contract detailing the agent's powers. General authority encompasses all actions an agent is allowed to take under their role, and decision-making without consulting the principal does not constitute apparent authority, as it does not hinge on the perceptions of a third party regarding the principal's conveyance of authority.