Agency Law – Episode 7: Review of Agency

In this concluding episode of our agency law module, Professor Seth C. Oranburg reviews and ties together the key principles we’ve explored—from the foundational elements of agency (consent, control, and acting on behalf of the principal) to the nuances of actual versus apparent authority, fiduciary duties, and the termination of agency relationships. He also revisits the doctrines of estoppel and ratification, explaining how these concepts protect third parties and bind principals even when formal authority is absent. The review sets the stage for our upcoming case study, Gay Jenson Farms Co. v. Cargill, by inviting you to critically analyze how courts determine liability based on the principal’s conduct and control. As you prepare to dive into this pivotal case, consider questions such as: Did the principal’s behavior create a reasonable basis for third parties to believe in the agent’s authority? How do the doctrines of estoppel or ratification influence the court’s decision? Join Professor Oranburg as he consolidates these complex ideas, helping you bridge theory with practical application in real-world business disputes.