Which of the following shows accurate use of the doctrine of promissory (equitable) estoppel?
A) Ralph told Mary that he would give her his old boat. If he doesn't, Mary could use the doctrine to force him to do so.
B) If Nancy accidentally ran her car over her neighbour's bushes, she could use the doctrine as a defence.
C) This doctrine can be used by a plaintiff to enforce a written promise signed and sealed (i.e., a seal has been affixed next to the signature of the promisor).
D) A defendant can use this doctrine as a defence against a plaintiff insisting on his full legal right when he had promised to forgive the defendant some of his obligation.
E) If Ho requests services from Jones and there is no mention of price, if Ho doesn't pay Jones, this doctrine can be used to force Ho to pay a reasonable amount.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The doctrine of promissory (equitable) estoppel prevents a party from going back on a promise that the other party has relied upon to their detriment. Choice D accurately reflects a situation where this doctrine could be applied, as it involves a defendant relying on a promise made by the plaintiff, which the plaintiff later seeks to retract.

Which of the Following Shows Accurate Use of the Doctrine