What does 'consent' mean in the context of legal agreements?

In the context of legal agreements, 'consent' refers to the concept of assent in fact, which encompasses both express and apparent agreement. This means that consent can be given through clear and direct communication, as well as through actions or circumstances that imply agreement, even if there is no verbal or written confirmation. For an agreement to be legally binding, it is essential that all parties involved demonstrate their understanding and acceptance of the terms, which can occur in various ways. Consent must be informed, voluntary, and given without coercion, ensuring that all parties are clear about what they are agreeing to.

The other choices relate to various aspects of agreement or approval but do not fully encapsulate the legal definition of consent. Mutual agreement indicates that all parties agree, but it lacks specificity about how the agreement is expressed. Approval by an authority relates more to regulatory or hierarchical permission rather than the direct agreement of involved parties. Implied agreement suggests a level of understanding without explicit communication but does not address the necessary elements of express and apparent consent that are crucial in legal contexts.