What is equitable estoppel?

Equitable estoppel is a legal concept in Contract Law that applies to a situation in which one party has been harmed by the actions of another party. It prevents that party from making a claim against the other party. In Mississippi, equitable estoppel prohibits a person from asserting their legal rights if they have, by their words or conduct, led another person to reasonably believe they do not intend to do so. For example, if Person A makes a promise to Person B and Person B reasons that Person A will keep their promise, acting in reliance of the promise, then later Person A refuses to deliver what was promised, Person B can invoke equitable estoppel. Person A cannot then sue Person B to enforce the agreement. Equitable estoppel is a common defense in many contract disputes. It is generally invoked when a person is wrongfully induced by the conduct of another to believe certain facts, and the person acts on that belief. It is a principle of equity that helps to ensure fair dealing in the legal context. Although equitable estoppel is a common doctrine in law, it is not absolute and will not always be applied. In Mississippi, the court will determine the applicability of equitable estoppel on a case-by-case basis. Generally, the court will look to see if the party asserting the defense has acted reasonably in the circumstances.

Related FAQs

What is a discharge for breach of contract?
What is an assignment of contract?
What is a warranty of title?
What is an executed contract?
What is a contract of indemnity?
What is a warranty in a contract?
What is the Statute of Frauds applicable to?
What is an indemnification clause?
What are the types of contracts?
What is an exculpatory clause?

What is equitable estoppel?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts