Which of the following shows accurate use of the doctrine of promissory (equitable) estoppel?
A) Val told Jim that she would give him her printer. If she doesn't, Jim could use the doctrine to force her to do so.
B) George rented a video and watched it with Elaine. She thought the movie was great and said she'd pay half the rental price. George could use the doctrine to force her to pay as she promised.
C) This doctrine can be used by a plaintiff to enforce a written promise that has been signed and sealed (i.e., a seal has been affixed next to the signature of the promisor).
D) Bruce, a defendant, can use this doctrine as a defence against a plaintiff insisting on his full legal right when he had promised to forgive Bruce some of Bruce's legal obligation and Bruce relied on that promise.
E) Lam contracted to supply Jones with steel. Before the steel was delivered, Lam's supplier increased the price. Lam could use the doctrine to force Jones to pay more to Lam.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The doctrine of promissory estoppel allows a party (in this case, Bruce) to enforce a promise made to them, on which they have relied to their detriment. It is typically used as a defense, not to enforce a new promise, but to prevent a promisor from going back on their word when it would be unjust to allow them to do so.

Which of the Following Shows Accurate Use of the Doctrine