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Civil litigation

estoppel

Estoppel is a legal principle that prevents a person or entity from asserting a legal right or taking a legal position that contradicts or is inconsistent with its earlier position, behavior, or agreement. The person or entity is said to be “estopped” from changing its position, behavior, or agreement because another person or entity has relied on its earlier position, behavior, or agreement (detrimental reliance).

In Washington State, estoppel is a legal doctrine that can prevent an individual or entity from asserting a claim or a defense that is contrary to what they have previously stated or agreed to, especially when another party has relied on that previous conduct to their detriment. This principle is designed to promote fairness and honesty in dealings. Estoppel can arise in various contexts, including but not limited to, real estate transactions, contract disputes, and employment relations. The specific application of estoppel can vary depending on the facts of each case, and it is recognized in both Washington's case law and statutes. For example, promissory estoppel is a type of estoppel that occurs when a promise is made without a formal contract, and someone else relies on that promise to their detriment. To successfully claim estoppel in Washington, the party asserting it must generally demonstrate that they relied on the other party's representation and that this reliance resulted in some form of detriment or harm.

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Civil litigation

estoppel

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Washington State Code

Washington State Code

Civil litigation

estoppel

Articles