Every ratification relates back and is equivalent to a prior command.

Explanation

When a principal ratifies an unauthorized act of his agent, the ratification is treated as though the principal had originally commanded it — approval after the fact binds as fully as instruction before.

Where this applies

• A boss finds out their employee made an unauthorized deal and approves it after the fact.
• A principal ratifies an agent's unauthorized contract.

See also

• 4.4.1 He who acts through another acts himself.
• 4.4.2 He who commands a thing to be done is held to have done it himself.