Legal Definitions - naked authority

Definition: Naked authority is a type of authority where the principal delegates power to an agent solely for their benefit, without giving any consideration to the agent. This authority can be revoked by the principal at any time.

Example: A homeowner hires a gardener to maintain their lawn. The homeowner gives the gardener the authority to purchase gardening tools and supplies as needed. However, the homeowner does not give the gardener any compensation or benefit for purchasing the tools. This is an example of naked authority.

This example illustrates that the gardener has the power to purchase tools, but they do not have any legal right to keep the tools or use them for their own benefit. The homeowner can revoke the gardener's authority at any time, and the gardener must return any tools or supplies purchased with the homeowner's money.