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 Wyoming, promissory estoppel serves as a legal remedy that allows a court to enforce a promise even when a formal contract does not exist or when certain elements of a contract are missing. The doctrine is based on the principle of fairness and is designed to prevent injustice that would result if the promise were not enforced. The elements required for promissory estoppel in Wyoming 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 to their detriment, and (4) a finding by the court that enforcement of the promise is necessary to avoid an injustice. If these elements are met, Wyoming courts may compel the promisor to fulfill their promise or provide compensation for the promisee's reliance. This equitable doctrine is particularly important in situations where traditional contract law requirements are not satisfied, but where parties have acted in reliance on promises made.