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 Tennessee, 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 for promissory estoppel in Tennessee include: (1) a clear and definite promise, (2) the promisor's expectation or foreseeability that the promisee will rely on the promise, (3) actual and reasonable reliance on the promise by the promisee, and (4) a detriment suffered by the promisee due to the reliance. If these elements are met, a Tennessee court may enforce the promise to avoid an inequitable outcome for the promisee. It is important to note that the application of promissory estoppel can vary based on the specific circumstances of each case, and an attorney can provide guidance on its likelihood of success in a particular situation.