The Equitable Defense of Laches

This lesson covers the defense of laches to an equitable action. Students will learn when the defense applies, the elements necessary to establish the defense, and how courts consider the defense. Students will also learn to distinguish laches from the related defenses of Estoppel and the Statute of Limitations.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the lesson, the student will be able to:

1. Define laches.
2. State the policy reasons that support the laches defense.
3. List the elements of the laches defense.
4. Explain the relationship between unreasonableness of delay and prejudice.