Which one of the following is NOT true?

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

Question restatement: The prompt asks which statement about promissory estoppel is NOT true.
Option a: 'Promissory estoppel may be relevant where the formalities of making a contract have not been satisfied' This is true in many jurisdictions, as promissory estoppel can arise even when a formal contract is not reached due to a promise that the other party relies on, which the law seeks to enforce to prevent injustice.
Option b: 'Promissory estoppel may be relevant where no consideration exists, particularly in the context of renegotiated agreements' This is also true. Promissory estoppel can operate where no consideration is present, especially to enforce promises that modify existing arrangements or renegotiations where reliance and injustice are present.
Option c: 'Promissory estoppel is only relevant where a contract exists' This is not true. Promissory estoppel can apply even in the absence of a formal contract, as a shield to prevent injustice when a party relies on a promise. The doctrine does not require a complete contract to have formed; it can still apply to non-contractual promises that induce reliance.
Option d: 'Promissory estoppel is not part of the law of contract, but performs a complementary function' This statement is misleading. Promissory estoppel is generally considered an equitable principle within contract law, used to enforce promises where inequity would occur due to reliance. Saying it is not part of contract law overlooks its established role within contract-related remedies and concepts.

In-depth distinctions:
- When considering option a, the key idea is that contract formation is not strictly necessary for enforceable reliance; the absence of formalities can still lead to enforceable promises through promissory estoppel.
- For option b, the absence of consideration does not bar enforcement if the elements of promissory estoppel (clear promise, reliance, and injustice) are satisfied, especially in renegotiations.
- Option c asserts a contract-centric view that is too narrow; promissory estoppel extends beyond existing contracts to prevent injustice from promises.
- Option d tends to mischaracterize promissory estoppel as outside contract law; in practice, it is integrated within contract and equitable principles and serves to address reliance-based injustices within the contractual sphere or in its interfacing with unformed agreements.

Summary of reasoning for each option:
- a: True; promissory estoppel can apply without formal contract.
- b: True; lack of consideration can be overridden by promissory estoppel in reliance scenarios.
- c: Not true; promissory estoppel is not confined to situations with an existing contract.
- d: Not true; promissory estoppel is part of contract/equitable law addressing reliance and injustice, not merely a separate, non-contractual tool.

Which one of the following is NOT true?

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