What is the definition of Authority in a legal context?

In a legal context, authority refers to the government's legal power to act. This definition encompasses the scope and limits of governmental power, including the ability to create and enforce laws and regulations. Authority is derived from legal frameworks, such as statutes and constitutions, which grant specific powers to various branches of government, such as legislative, executive, and judicial entities.

Understanding authority is crucial when dealing with law enforcement and regulatory matters. For instance, in the context of the U.S. Coast Guard, knowledge of authority informs officers about their powers and responsibilities during operations, including boarding procedures and enforcement of maritime laws.

The other definitions listed do not capture this specific legal application of authority. While the ability to influence decisions relates more broadly to power dynamics, the process of lawmaking pertains to how laws are created rather than the defined legal power to enforce them. The enforcement of local ordinances is a function of authority but does not encapsulate the full breadth of what authority means within the legal framework.