Who has the power to terminate the agency relationship?

The agency relationship can be terminated by either the principal or the agent. This mutual ability to terminate the relationship is fundamental to the concept of agency.

When a principal decides to end the agency relationship, they have the authority to do so for various reasons, such as dissatisfaction with the agent’s performance or a change in circumstances that makes the continuation of the agency unnecessary. Similarly, an agent might choose to terminate the relationship if they feel it’s in their best interest, for instance, if they believe the principal is not providing adequate support or if ethical issues arise.

This shared power reinforces the idea that both parties have significant roles and responsibilities within the agency relationship, allowing for flexibility in how the relationship can evolve or conclude. Each party's ability to terminate the relationship also helps ensure that the agency operates under the mutual consent and agreement of both the principal and the agent, promoting a collaborative environment for conducting business.