Unjust Enrichment

What is Unjust Enrichment in Tort Law?

Unjust enrichment occurs when one party unfairly benefits at another's expense without a legal justification. The law seeks to rectify this by requiring the enriched party to compensate the other.

Quick Definition

Unjust enrichment is a legal principle where one person is enriched at the expense of another in circumstances deemed unjust. The remedy typically involves restitution to restore the balance.

In Context

Unjust enrichment often arises in situations where a contract is void or unenforceable, yet one party has received a benefit. A classic example is the case of Fibrosa Spolka Akcyjna v. Fairbairn Lawson Combe Barbour Ltd (1943), where a contract was frustrated due to war, and the court ordered restitution for payments made. This principle ensures fairness by preventing one party from retaining benefits without paying for them.

See Also

• Restitution

• Quantum Meruit

• Constructive Trust

Learn More

Explore the intricacies of unjust enrichment and related concepts with our Tort Law Notes for detailed case law, examples, and revision tips.