Define: Estoppel By Representation

Estoppel by representation is a legal principle that prevents a person from asserting a claim or right that is inconsistent with a prior statement, action, or representation they have made to another party. It arises when one party relies on the words, conduct, or representations of another party to their detriment, and the party making the representation then seeks to contradict or deny the truth of their earlier statements or actions. Estoppel by representation aims to prevent unfairness or injustice by holding parties accountable for their words and actions and preventing them from taking advantage of others’ reliance on their representations. It operates as a form of legal protection against inconsistent or contradictory behaviour, ensuring consistency and fairness in legal dealings.

A form of Estoppel in which one party acts to his detriment on a misrepresentation of fact by another. It does not refer to misrepresentations of points of law, not to promises of future action (see: Promissory estoppel).

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This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2024.