equitable doctrines

Equitable doctrines are principles in law that aim to achieve fairness and justice, rather than strictly adhering to legal rules. They are applied in situations where applying the law as it stands would be unfair or lead to harsh outcomes. For example, if someone has relied on a promise made by another, equitable doctrines can sometimes enforce that promise even if there wasn't a formal contract. Common equitable doctrines include "promissory estoppel," which protects reliance on promises, and "unjust enrichment," which prevents one party from benefiting unfairly at another's expense. These doctrines emphasize fairness in legal outcomes.