Authorize: A single word with a surprisingly complex definition. That definition, however, is critically important to understand and decide when it’s necessary to engage a lawyer. Authorize essentially means being granted permission or some degree of control over an action or a decision of another party. On the surface this definition might not seem very complicated, but when used in legal contexts it can become complex. To better understand how authorize is used in the legal landscape, consider this example.
Understanding Authorize Through Example
Say John and Jill enter into a business relationship of some kind. As part of this arrangement, John gives Jill the authority to make certain decisions on his behalf. He grants her a power of attorney, authorizing her to make certain transactions and decisions in his best interest. In this case, John has authorized Jill to use his name when executing these decisions.
The idea of authorization applies to all different types of legal situations, from business relationships to actual contracts. It comes down to the idea that when someone authorizes another person to do something in their name, they are essentially allowing that person to act as an agent on their behalf. Generally, the authorization will include specific tasks or responsibilities the signee is allowed to carry out. It is important to note that if either party breaches these responsibilities, the other can still be legally held liable.
When to Consult a Professional
It is critical to understand that authorization can be a legally binding agreement, and a professional should be consulted if any confusion exists. A legal professional will be able to ensure that the agreement properly defines the scope of the authorization, and that both parties understand their rights and responsibilities. In most cases it is also important to draft a contract to make sure the authorization holds up in court.
Authorize might appear to be a simple legal definition, but it is much more complicated than it seems at first glance. Understanding the full implications of authorizing someone to act on your behalf is important, and having the guidance of a legal expert can be incredibly valuable. Taking the time to familiarize yourself with how authorization works is a smart first step in making sure you fully understand the implications of both parties in any agreement.