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Letter E
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Estoppel

A legal principle that prevents a person from asserting a position inconsistent with their previous conduct or representations if another party relied on those representations.

Encyclopedia entry: Estoppel

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estoppel

Estoppel is an equitable doctrine , a bar that prevents one from asserting a claim or right that contradicts what one has said or done before, or what has been legally established as true. Estoppel may be used as a bar to the re-litigation of issues or as an affirmative defense .

For estoppel in contract law, promissory estoppel is often applied where there is a promise or an agreement made without consideration .

[Last reviewed in September of 2022 by the Wex Definitions Team
]

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Encyclopedia content from Cornell LII Wex (CC-BY-NC-SA 2.5).

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This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.