When and how does the agency relationship terminate?

The establishment, duration, and termination of the agency relationship are generally governed by the agreement between the principal and agent. In the absence of an express agreement, several default rules apply regarding the point at which the agency relationship terminates. Below are common rules for terminating the agency relationship: Withdrawal by a Party, Termination by the Principal, Renunciation by Agent, Death or Incapacity of Agent, Death or Incapacity or Bankruptcy of the Principal.

The above situations resulting in the termination of the agency relationship are default rules. The parties may reserve any rights or restrictions on terminating the agency relationship within their agreement.

What is Withdrawal by Either Principal or Agent?

A principal or agent may withdraw from the relationship at any time. This legal authority is separate from the contractual right to withdraw.

• Note: While withdrawal terminates the agency relationship, it may lead to liability of the withdrawing party.
• Example: Daisy hires Jeb as a sales agent for her new product line. Jeb will earn a commission on sales of the product. Jeb studies the product lines, develops a sales plan, and hits the road. Shortly after the relationship begins, Daisy decides to hire Luke and fire Jeb. Daisy's withdrawal terminates the agency relationship with Jeb. Jeb, however, may have the legal right to seek damages against Daisy for terminating the relationship.

What is Withdrawal by a Principal or Agent?

The parties can terminate the agency relationship upon mutual consent.

Termination by the Principal

Either party may terminate the agency relationship, even if it violates a contractual agreement between the parties. A principal will be subject to a breach of contract action for terminating the agency relationship if the agent's status is part of an agreement that is supported by consideration and terminating the agency relationship will harm the agent's rights.

• Note: This scenario commonly arises in an agency coupled with an interest. An agency relationship is coupled with interest when the agent has a specific interest in the subject matter of the agency, such as a consignment of goods for resale.
• Example: I enter into a contract with Ernest to package and sell his products on the Internet. In exchange for my effort, I will keep a percentage of the sale value. As such, the agency is coupled with an interest and cannot be revoked without breaching a contract.

Renunciation by the Agent

The agent can renounce the business of the principal and terminate her agency status and authority. This may, however, violate a contractual relationship between the parties.

• Example: I enter into a contract to serve as your agent. I may terminate the agency by renouncing my duties. Unless I have a justification, my actions will likely violate my contractual obligations to you.

When are the Duties of Agent Complete?

If the purpose of the agency ceases to exist, the agency relationship terminates. This often arises when the agent discharges all of her agency obligations. Further, it could arise when the subject matter of the agency no longer exists.

• Example: You higher me to represent you in the sale of your real estate. The real estate is the subject of an eminent domain action and is taken by the government. The agency relationship terminates when the purpose of my agency is gone.

Agency Interrupted by Death or Incapacity 

The agency relationship terminates upon the death or incapacity of either party.

Agency Interrupted by Bankruptcy of the Principal 

The agency relationship terminates upon the liquidation or reorganization of either party.

Related Topics

• Agency Law (Intro)

• What is an Agency relationship?
• What are the types of agents?
• Employee vs. Independent Contractor
• What are the types of principals?
• What is required to form a principal-agent relationship?
• What are the duties of a principal?
• What are the duties of an agent?
• What is the authority of an Agent to Bind Business in Contract?
• When are Agents liable to principals and third parties?
• What is Respondeat Superior?
• What is a Frolic and Detour?
• When does the Agency Relationship Terminate?