#39 · 2026-09-14 · Legal term
Promissory estoppel
Promissory estoppel addresses a promise that foreseeably induces reasonable detrimental reliance when enforcement is necessary to avoid injustice. Its remedy need not always equal full expectation damages.
Rule to remember
Promissory estoppel permits relief for foreseeable, reasonable detrimental reliance on a promise when enforcement is needed to avoid injustice.
Key elements and checks
- A promise and reasonably foreseeable reliance.
- Actual reasonable detrimental reliance.
- Enforcement necessary to avoid injustice.
In the source’s words
“It applies when enforcing the promise is necessary to avoid injustice.”
Cornell Wex — Promissory estoppel
Exact formulations and available remedies differ by jurisdiction; reliance is not simply another name for consideration.