Under the Law of Agency, how is a principal defined?

The principal, in the context of the Law of Agency, is defined as the party who engages the agent. This relationship establishes the authority under which the agent operates. In insurance, the principal is typically the insurer or the company that authorizes the agent to act on its behalf. This authority includes making decisions, negotiating contracts, and performing other duties to further the interests of the principal.

Understanding this definition is crucial for recognizing the responsibilities and powers invested in the agent, as well as the principal's legal obligations towards actions taken by the agent in the context of insurance transactions. This relationship is foundational in the insurance industry, as it delineates the roles and interactions between the parties involved in the sale and management of insurance products.