The officer's ______ is affected by the agency's written directives.

The correct answer, which is liability, reflects how an officer's legal responsibilities and potential for being held accountable are influenced by the agency's written directives. These directives outline the policies, rules, and procedures that govern the actions and decisions of officers in their duties. When officers adhere to these directives, their liability in any action or incident is typically reduced, as they can demonstrate that they were following established guidelines.

In contrast, if an officer deviates from these written directives, their liability could increase, as such actions may be viewed as a failure to conform to the expected professional standards. This emphasis on adherence to written policies is crucial in law enforcement, as it serves to protect both the officer and the agency from legal repercussions that could arise from wrongful actions or misconduct.

The other options, including expertise, authority, and reputation, do not directly relate to how written directives impact an officer's legal and functional responsibilities in the same way that liability does. While these factors may be influenced by the agency's policies indirectly, they do not capture the essence of legal accountability inherent in the concept of liability.