What does the legal term 'estoppel' mean?

The legal term 'estoppel' refers to a principle that prevents someone from arguing something contrary to a claim they have previously made or established by their actions or conduct. In essence, it stops a person from taking a different position that contradicts a previous assertion that has been relied upon by others. This concept is vital in legal contexts as it upholds the integrity of communication and actions, ensuring that individuals cannot go back on their word or the implications of their prior behavior when it would be unfair to do so.

This principle serves to protect parties who have relied on the previous representations or actions of the other party, fostering fairness and certainty in legal relationships. Therefore, it accurately aligns with the idea of stopping a person's action in the context of claiming something contrary to their established position. Understanding estoppel is crucial for land surveying professionals, especially in matters relating to property rights and boundaries, where previous claims or behaviors can significantly impact legal outcomes.