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 Louisiana, estoppel is a legal doctrine that operates to bar a party from taking a position contrary to one that party has previously taken, especially if another party has relied on the initial position to their detriment. This principle is particularly relevant in civil law, which governs the legal system of Louisiana, and it is rooted in the concepts of fairness and equity. Estoppel can arise in various contexts, such as in contractual relationships, property rights, and family law. Louisiana courts will consider whether a party's previous conduct or statements have led another party to reasonably rely on them to their detriment. If estoppel is established, the party that induced the reliance will be prevented from adopting an inconsistent position if it would result in harm or injustice. It's important to note that the specific application of estoppel can vary depending on the facts of each case, and an attorney can provide guidance on how estoppel might apply in a particular situation.