ostensible authority

ostensible authority

n. apparent authority to do something or represent another person or entity. (See: apparent authority, ostensible agent)

Copyright © 1981-2005 by Gerald N. Hill and Kathleen T. Hill. All Right reserved.

ostensible authority

authority that appears from the circumstances to exist whatever the reality may be. The manager of a shop has ostensible authority in relation to many transactions, regardless of what authority the owner may actually have given him. See AGENCY, APPARENT AUTHORITY.

Collins Dictionary of Law © W.J. Stewart, 2006