Select your state

Civil litigation

promissory estoppel

Promissory estoppel is an equitable theory of recovery that permits enforcement of a promise when one or more elements necessary to create an enforceable contract are missing. The elements of promissory estoppel are generally: (1) a promise; (2) foreseeability of reliance by the promisor; (3) substantial and reasonable reliance by the promisee to its detriment; and (4) enforcing the promise is necessary to avoid injustice.

In New Jersey, promissory estoppel serves as a legal remedy that allows a party to enforce a promise even when a formal contract does not exist or certain elements for a contract are lacking. The doctrine is based on the principle of fairness and seeks to prevent injustice that would result from not enforcing the promise. The elements required to establish promissory estoppel in New Jersey are: (1) a clear and definite promise by the promisor, (2) a reasonable expectation by the promisor that the promisee will rely on the promise, (3) actual and reasonable reliance by the promisee to their detriment, and (4) a finding by the court that the promise should be enforced to prevent an injustice. New Jersey courts will consider these factors when determining whether to apply promissory estoppel in a given case.

Legal Articles

State Statutes

Individual & Family Legal Plan

As a LegalFix member, you'll get expert legal services from a local law firm that treats you like an important client. Don't wait—be prepared for life's inevitable legal challenges starting today. And ask your employer, credit union, or membership group about preferred pricing opportunities.

Civil litigation

promissory estoppel

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

New-Jersey State Code

New-Jersey State Code

Civil litigation

promissory estoppel

Articles