Estoppel Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Estoppel.

Estoppel (noun): A principle in law that prevents a person from claiming a fact or a right, or from denying a fact, due to their own past actions, statements, neglect to act, or judgment against them in a similar case. It can involve being obstructed by deception or concealment (equitable estoppel), not taking legal action until the other party is disadvantaged by the delay (estoppel by laches), or having a previous court judgement against them on the same issue (collateral estoppel).