What is the definition of promissory estoppel?

Promissory estoppel is indeed best defined as a doctrine under which a promise is binding if it is clear and definite, and there is reasonable reliance on that promise by the promisee. This legal principle serves to enforce a promise even in the absence of a formal contract, provided certain conditions are met.

Key elements of promissory estoppel include the existence of a clear and definite promise, reasonable reliance on that promise by the promisee, and the resulting detriment to the promisee that would occur if the promise were not enforced. This doctrine effectively prevents the promisor from arguing that an underlying contract does not exist when the promise has indeed induced reliance and action from the promisee.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of promissory estoppel. For example, the first choice inaccurately implies that the promisee is required to keep a promise regardless of their reliance, which opposes the fundamental idea of reliance on a promise. The third choice describes a more general legal term about assurances without addressing the reliance aspect critical to promissory estoppel. Lastly, the fourth option veers entirely from the context of promissory estoppel and focuses on property division in divorce, which is unrelated to the doctrine of promises.