Lepinguti

Lepinguti is a term used in contract theory and ethical discussions to describe informal commitments that resemble contracts but do not meet the formal criteria required for enforceability in many legal systems. The concept is not a standard legal category in most jurisdictions; rather, it appears in academic debates as a way to discuss the space between moral obligation and legally enforceable obligation.

Definition and elements: A lepinguti arrangement typically involves an intention to create a binding obligation, mutual reliance, and a willingness to perform, but it lacks formal elements such as a written instrument, specific consideration, or explicit signatures mandated by law. Because of this, it may be treated as a nonbinding pledge, a social promise, or, in some cases, as enforceable under doctrines like promissory estoppel or reliance-based liability.

Context and use: Scholars use lepinguti to analyze pre-contract discussions, informal deals in business networks, and everyday promises in which one party's reliance on another's promise would cause harm if not honored. In comparative law, the term helps illustrate how different legal regimes treat informal commitments.

Examples: A neighbor verbally promises to lend a tool for a specific period, with both parties acting in reliance on the promise but with no written contract. A small business agrees informally to provide services in exchange for a future payment, again without formal documentation.

See also: contract law, promissory estoppel, pre-contractual liability.