How is "reasonable care" defined for agents in Maryland?

In Maryland, "reasonable care" for agents is defined as the application of care that a reasonable person would exercise in similar circumstances. This concept is rooted in common law principles that require agents to act with the level of skill, care, and diligence that is expected of a reasonably prudent person in the same position.

The standard recognizes that agents are expected to perform their duties competently and to protect the interests of their principals to the best of their ability. It accounts for the circumstances surrounding each specific situation, and it does not necessarily require perfection or completion of tasks without errors.

By contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the definition of reasonable care. Acting without any errors sets an unrealistic standard, as mistakes can happen even with due diligence. Performing duties without supervision does not necessarily imply that reasonable care is being exercised; rather, agents must still adhere to the standard of care regardless of oversight. Completing tasks quickly could lead to a lack of thoroughness and oversight, which would contradict the obligation to exercise reasonable care.