Agency is a relationship based on an agreement authorizing one person, the agent, to act for another, the principal. For example an agent may negotiate and make contracts with third persons on behalf of the principal. Actions of an agent can obligate the principal to third persons. Actions of an agent may also give a principal rights against third persons.
The term agency is often used in other ways. For example, the term is used sometimes to show that a person has the right to sell certain products. A very important aspect of the law of agency deals with determining the scope of the agent's authority.
In this form, the agent only has authority to solicit orders and has no authority, right or power to accept any order, or to assume or create any obligation on behalf of the principal. In this form, the salesman receives as compensation a commission on sales, but no salary.
