What occurs if an agent exceeds their authority?

When an agent exceeds their authority, the principal is not automatically bound by the agent's actions unless they choose to ratify those actions afterward. Ratification occurs when the principal affirms and accepts the unauthorized actions taken by the agent, thus making those actions binding as if they had originally authorized them. This concept is crucial in agency law because it illustrates the principle that the relationship between the agent and principal is grounded in consent and the defined scope of authority.

In cases where the agent acts beyond their authority, the principal retains the option to reject those actions. If the principal does not ratify the agent's decisions, the agent may bear the consequences for acting outside their granted powers, which can lead to liability issues for the agent themselves. This highlights the significance of the boundaries of authority within agency relationships and establishes that the agent’s unilateral actions outside their scope can put them at risk without the principal’s confirmation.