What does "Authority" refer to in a legal context?

In a legal context, "Authority" refers specifically to the legal right to act. This concept encompasses the permissions granted to individuals or entities to carry out specific functions or enforce rules under the law. For instance, law enforcement officers have the authority to enforce laws and make arrests because they are given the legal right from governmental structures. This legal framework ensures that actions taken under this authority are recognized as legitimate and binding.

The other choices reflect different aspects of power or capability that may be related but do not define "Authority" in a strict legal sense. The ability to impose punishment relates more to the consequences of authority, rather than the right itself. Permission to negotiate is about discretionary powers rather than legal authority. Power to influence decisions, while relevant to leadership and informal authority, does not pertain directly to the established legal framework that dictates who can act and under what circumstances. Thus, "Legal right to act" is the most accurate interpretation of authority in this context.