Silver v. Silver, 219 A.2d 659 (Pa. 1966). · Go Syfert
Silver v. Silver, 219 A.2d 659 (Pa. 1966). Cases Citing This Book View Copy Cite
159 citation events (77 in the last 25 years) across 21 distinct courts.
Strongest positive: Gotham City Enterprises, LLC and Starling City Enterprises, LLC v. Abundance Wealth Counselors, LLC and Richard F. DeFluri (pamd, 2026-03-06)
Treatment trajectory · 1966 → 2026 · click a year to view as-of
1966 1996 2026
Top citers, strongest first. 37 distinct citers. How cited ↗
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Gotham City Enterprises, LLC and Starling City Enterprises, LLC v. Abundance Wealth Counselors, LLC and Richard F. DeFluri
M.D. Penn. · 2026 · confidence medium
Partners, Inc., 708 F.3d 470, 500 (3d Cir. 2013) (quoting In re Estate of Clark, 359 A.2d 777, 781 (Pa. 1976)). 60 Id. at 633. position of the parties is such that the one has the power and means to take advantage of, or exercise undue influence over, the other.”61 “‘Although no precise formula has been devised to ascertain the existence of a confidential relationship, it has been said that such a relationship . . . exists whenever one occupies toward another such a position of advisor or counselor as reasonably to inspire confidence that he will act in good faith for the other’s inter…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Jerry M. Adair, et al. v. Cigna Corporate Services, LLC, and The Cigna Group
E.D. Pa. · 2026 · confidence medium
Under Pennsylvania law, a confidential relationship “exists whenever one occupies toward another such a position of advisor or counselor as reasonably to inspire confidence that he will act in good faith for the other’s interest.” Silver v. Silver, 219 A.2d 659, 662 (Pa. 1966).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) ANDREWS v. JPA R/E ASSOCIATES, L.P.
E.D. Pa. · 2025 · confidence medium
Moreover, Plaintiffs pled that BPE Defendants breached their fiduciary duties owed to Plaintiffs by failing to invest Plaintiffs’ funds and instead using Plaintiffs’ funds for the benefit, 73 Id. (quoting Silver v. Silver, 219 A.2d 659, 662 (Pa. 1966)). 74 Marion, 288 A.3d at 88. 75 BPE Defs.’ Mem.
cited Cited as authority (rule) Gratz v. Gratz
M.D. Penn. · 2024 · confidence medium
Ct. 1982) (quoting Silver v. Silver, 219 A.2d 659, 662 (Pa. 1966)).
examined Cited as authority (rule) Boyko, E. v. Boyko, C. (3×)
Pa. Super. Ct. · 2023 · confidence medium
Silver, 219 A.2d 659, 661 (Pa. 1966). ("Athough no precise formula has been devised to ascertain the existence of a confidential relationship, it as been held that such a relationship is not confined to a particular association of parties but exists whenever one occupies toward another such a position of advisor or counselor as reasonably to inspire confidence that he will act in good faith for the other's interest."); Truver y Kennedy, 229 A.2d 468, 474 (Pa. 1967) ("onc stands to another in a confidential relationship where one occupies such a position as reasonably to inspire confidence in t…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) IN RE: VANGUARD CHESTER FUNDS LITIGATION
E.D. Pa. · 2023 · confidence medium
Partners, Inc., 708 F.3d 470, 500 (3d Cir. 2013) (citation omitted) (quoting In re Est. of Clark, 359 A.2d 777, 781 (Pa. 1976)). “[N]o precise formula exists” to decide whether someone is owed a fiduciary duty, but it “exists whenever one occupies toward another such a position of advisor or counselor as reasonably to inspire confidence that he will act in good faith for the other’s interest.” Silver v. Silver, 219 A.2d 659, 662 (Pa. 1966); see Conquest v. WMC Mortg.
discussed Cited as authority (rule) ANDERSON v. MERCY CATHOLIC MEDICAL CENTER OF SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA
E.D. Pa. · 2023 · confidence medium
“The general test for determining the existence of . . . a [fiduciary] relationship is whether it is clear that the parties did not deal on equal terms.” Frowen v. Blank, 425 A.2d 412, 416 (Pa. 1981). “[N]o precise formula has been devised to ascertain the existence of a confidential relationship,” but one exists “‘whenever one occupies toward another such a position of advisor or counselor as reasonably to inspire confidence that he will act in good faith for the other’s interest.’” Belmont, 708 F.3d at 500 (quoting Silver v. Silver, 219 A.2d 659, 662 (Pa. 1966)).
cited Cited as authority (rule) Trust Under Deed of Walter G, Appeal of:Garrison,M
Pa. Super. Ct. · 2023 · confidence medium
Silver v. Silver, … 219 A.2d 659, 662 ([Pa. ]1966) (stating that kinship, while not dispositive, is a factor “which cannot be ignored”).
cited Cited as authority (rule) BASEMENT SOLUTIONS LLC v. WELLS FARGO BANK
E.D. Pa. · 2021 · confidence medium
Pa. Dec. 19, 2017) (citing Baker, 440 F. Supp. at 571) (quoting Silver v. Silver, 219 A.2d 659, 662 (Pa. 1966))). 40 Deckard v. Emory, No. 17-5182, 2020 WL 3960421 , at *5 (E.D.
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Mifflinburg Telegraph, Inc. v. Criswell
M.D. Penn. · 2017 · confidence medium
“Although no precise formula has been devised to ascertain the existence of a confidential relationship, it has been said that such a relationship exists whenever one occupies toward another such a position of advisor or counselor as reasonably to inspire confidence that he will act in good faith for the other’s interest.” Silver v. Silver, 421 Pa. 533 , 219 A.2d 659, 662 (1966); see also Basile v. H&R Block, Inc., 777 A.2d 95, 101-02 (Pa.Super.2001).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Yenchi, E. v. Ameriprise Financial, Aplts. (2×)
Pa. · 2017 · confidence medium
Silver v. Silver, 219 A.2d 659, 662 (Pa. 1966) (stating that kinship, while not dispositive, is a factor "which cannot be ignored").
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Conquest v. WMC Mortgage Corp.
E.D. Pa. · 2017 · confidence medium
A fiduciary relationship exists “whenever one occupies toward another such a position of adviso'r or .counselor as reasonably to inspire confidence that he will; act in good faith for the other’s [best] interest.” Id. at 416 (citing Silver v. Silver, 421 Pa. 533 , 219 A.2d 659, 662 (1966); Basile v. H&R Block, Inc., 777 A.2d 95, 101-02 (Pa. Super.
discussed Cited as authority (rule) In Re: Est. of: Schumacher, R., Sr.
Pa. Super. Ct. · 2016 · confidence medium
“A confidential relationship is created between two persons when it is established that one occupies a superior position over the other — intellectually, physically, governmentally, or morally — with the opportunity to use that superiority to the other’s disadvantage.” In re Estate of Thomas, 463 Pa. 284 , 344 A.2d 834, 836 (1975). “[S]uch a relationship is not confined to a particular association of parties, but exists whenever one occupies toward another such a position of advisor or counselor as reasonably to inspire confidence that he will act in good faith for the other’s in…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Carter P. v. Pook & Pook, LLC.
E.D. Pa. · 2016 · confidence medium
“Although no precise formula has been devised to ascertain the existence of a confidential relationship, it has been said that such a relationship exists whenever one occupies toward another such a position of advisor or counselor as reasonably to inspire confidence that he will act in good faith for the other’s interest.” Id. (quoting Silver v. Silver, 421 Pa. 533 , 219 A.2d 659, 662 (1966); see also Basile v. H & R Block, Inc., 777 A.2d 95, 101-02 (Pa.Super.Ct.2001)).
cited Cited as authority (rule) Haberern, R. v. Schaffer, T.
Pa. Super. Ct. · 2015 · confidence medium
Silver v. Silver, 219 A.2d 659, 661-62 (Pa. 1966) (footnote and citations omitted).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) In re Estate of Smaling
Pa. Super. Ct. · 2013 · confidence medium
“A confidential relationship is created between two persons when it is established that one occupies a superior position over the other — intellectually, physically, governmentally, or morally— with the opportunity to use that superiority to the other’s disadvantage.” In re Estate of Thomas, 463 Pa. 284 , 344 A.2d 834, 836 (1975). “[S]uch a relationship is not confined to a particular association of parties, but exists whenever one occupies toward another such a position of advisor or counselor as reasonably to inspire confidence that he will act in good faith for the other’s int…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Barry Belmont v. MB Investment Partners, Inc.
3rd Cir. · 2013 · confidence medium
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has said that a plaintiff alleging a fiduciary breach must first demonstrate that a fiduciary or confidential relationship existed, see Basile v. H & R Block, Inc., 563 Pa. 359 , 761 A.2d 1115, 1119-22 (2000), which requires that “one person has reposed a special confidence in another to the extent that the parties do not deal with each other on equal terms.” In re Estate of Clark, 467 Pa. 628 , 359 A.2d 777, 781 (1976) (internal quotation marks omitted). 35 “Although no precise formula has been devised to ascertain the existence of a confidential relations…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) SZYMANOWSKI v. Brace
Pa. Super. Ct. · 2009 · confidence medium
More recently, our Supreme Court has traced the long line of cases confirming this point in Silver v. Silver, 421 Pa. 533, 536 , 219 A.2d 659, 661 (1966) (holding “a constructive trust, being implied by law, is expressly excluded from the operation of the Statute.”). ¶ 26 Smith is distinguishable for several reasons.
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Kopp v. Tubies
pactcompladams · 2008 · confidence medium
Tubies’ motion for summary judgment on the basis that the statute of frauds precluded a claim for constructive trust was denied based upon the authority of Silver v. Silver, 421 Pa. 533, 538-39 , 219 A.2d 659, 661 (1966).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) United States v. Neidig
3rd Cir. · 2007 · confidence medium
See, e.g., Brentwater Homes, Inc. v. Weibley, 471 Pa. 17 , 369 A.2d 1172, 1175 (1977); Silver v. Silver, 421 Pa. 533 , 219 A.2d 659, 661-62 (1966); Godzieba v. Godzieba, 393 Pa. 544 , 143 A.2d 344, 347 (1958).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Baker v. FAMILY CREDIT COUNSELING COPR.
E.D. Pa. · 2006 · confidence medium
“Although no precise formula has been devised to ascertain the existence of a confidential relationship, it has been said that such a relationship exists whenever one occupies toward another such a position of advisor or counselor as reasonably to inspire confidence that he will act in good faith for the other’s interest.” Silver v. Silver, 421 Pa. 533 , 219 A.2d 659, 662 (1966); see also Basile v. H & R Block, Inc., 777 A.2d 95, 101-02 (Pa.Super.2001).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Makozy v. Makozy
Pa. Super. Ct. · 2005 · signal: cf. · confidence medium
Cf. Silver, supra at 537-538 , 219 A.2d at 662 (opining that the mere fact of a mother/son relationship, without more, will not support a finding of a confidential relationship, although it is a factor that must be considered; but finding in that case that mother’s reliance on sons to manage the property, pay taxes, and provide her with excess rent money supported the existence of a confidential relationship). 6 ¶ 25 Regarding the loans, the court found that children agreed to pay 10% interest, compounded annually, on the unpaid balance of the $30,000 loan.
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Etoll, Inc. v. Elias/Savion Advertising, Inc.
Pa. Super. Ct. · 2002 · confidence medium
Also see, e.g., Maritrans G.P., Inc. v. Pepper, Hamilton & Scheetz, 529 Pa. 241 , 602 A.2d 1277, 1283 (Pa.1990[1992]) (special relationship exists between attorney and client); Frowen v. Blank, 493 Pa. 137 , 425 A.2d 412, 418 (Pa. 1981) (special relationship exists between 86 year old widow with no formal education and her sole business counselor); Estate of Thomas, 463 Pa. 284 , 344 A.2d 834 , 836 *23 (Pa.1975) (special relationship between attorney-scrivener and testator); Silver v. Silver, 421 Pa. 533 , 219 A.2d 659, 662 (Pa.1966) (special relationship between widow and sons upon whom she r…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Peterson v. Groves
Wash. Ct. App. · 2002 · confidence medium
The court stated that a “confidential relationship” occurs where “ ‘one occupies toward another such a position of advisor or counselor as reasonably to inspire confidence that he will act in good faith for the other’s interest.’ ” Id. at 151-52 (quoting Silver v. Silver, 421 Pa. 533 , 219 A.2d 659, 662 (1966)).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Peterson v. Groves
Wash. Ct. App. · 2002 · confidence medium
The court stated that a "confidential relationship" occurs where "one occupies toward another such a position of advisor or counselor as reasonably to inspire confidence that he will act in good faith for the other's interest." Id. at 151-52 (quoting Silver v. Silver, 421 Pa. 533 , 219 A.2d 659, 662 (1966)).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Valley Forge Convention & Visitors Bureau v. Visitor's Services, Inc.
E.D. Pa. · 1998 · confidence medium
Also see, e.g., Maritrans GP, Inc. v. Pepper, Hamilton & Scheetz, 529 Pa. 241 , 602 A.2d 1277, 1283 (1990) (special relationship exists between attorney and client); Frowen v. Blank, 493 Pa. 137 , 425 A.2d 412, 418 (1981) (special relationship exists between 86 year old widow with no formal education and her sole business counselor); Estate of Thomas, 463 Pa. 284 , 344 A.2d 834, 836 (1975) (special relationship between attorney-scrivener and *953 testator); Silver v. Silver, 421 Pa. 533 , 219 A.2d 659, 662 (1966) (special relationship between widow and sons upon whom she relied to manage her p…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Gurenlian v. Gurenlian
Pa. Super. Ct. · 1991 · confidence medium
A confidential relationship occurs when, because of a family relationship or otherwise, “one occupies toward another such a position of advisor or counselor as reasonably to inspire confidence that he will act in good faith for the other’s interest.” Silver v. Silver, 421 Pa. 533, 537 , 219 A.2d 659, 662 (1966) (citations omitted).
cited Cited as authority (rule) Estate of Buriak v. Sperl
Pa. · 1985 · confidence medium
Estate of Keiper, 308 Pa.Super. 82, 86 , 454 A.2d 31, 33 (1982), quoting Silver v. Silver, 421 Pa. 533, 537 , 219 A.2d 659, 662 (1966).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) United States v. Reed
S.D.N.Y. · 1985 · confidence medium
See Cole v. Adkins, 358 So.2d 447, 449-50 (Ala.1978) (mother and son enjoyed confidential relationship because they were very close, and son assumed the major portion of the financial burden of taking care of mother during the last years of her life); King v. Uhlmann, 103 Ariz. 136 , 437 P.2d 928, 937 (1968) (confidential relationship found because trusting party due to his perilous financial position had disclosed all his financial interests to other parties, completely relied on them, and was clearly in inferior bargaining position); Davidson v. Sanders, 235 Ark. 161 , 357 S.W.2d 510, 517 (1…
cited Cited as authority (rule) Estate of Keiper
Pa. Super. Ct. · 1982 · confidence medium
Silver v. Silver, 421 Pa. 533, 537 , 219 A.2d 659, 662 (1966).
examined Cited as authority (rule) Truver v. Kennedy (4×)
Pa. · 1967 · confidence medium
This statute applies to constructive trusts: Silver v. Silver, 421 Pa. 533, 538, 539 , 219 A. 2d 659 (1966); Watson v. Watson, 198 Pa. 234, 247-249 , 47 A. 1096 (1901).
cited Cited "see" SCHWARTZ v. TAYLOR
E.D. Pa. · 2021 · signal: see · confidence high
See Silver v. Silver, 219 A.2d 659, 661 (Pa. 1966); see also Harold v. McGann, 406 F. Supp. 2d 562 , 571–72 (E.D.
discussed Cited "see" Kidd v. Biscuit (2×)
pactcomplcumber · 2001 · signal: see · confidence high
See Silver v. Silver, 421 Pa. 533, 537 , 219 A.2d 659, 662 (1966); see generally, Friday, 311 Pa. Super. 17 , 457 A.2d 91 .
examined Cited "see" Robbins v. Kristofic (4×)
Pa. Super. Ct. · 1994 · signal: see · confidence high
See Silver v. Silver, 421 Pa. 533 , 219 A.2d 659 (1966) (imposition of a constructive trust is appropriate to preclude unjust enrichment); see also Denny v. Cavalieri, 297 Pa.Super. 129 , 443 A.2d 333 (1982).
discussed Cited "see" Kohr v. Kohr (2×)
Pa. Super. Ct. · 1979 · signal: see · confidence high
See Silver v. Silver, 421 Pa. 533 , 219 A.2d 659 (1966); Moreland v. Metrovich, 249 Pa.Super. 88 , 375 A.2d 772 (1977).
discussed Cited "see, e.g." FLINT DILLE v. GEER
E.D. Pa. · 2020 · signal: see also · confidence medium
Specifically, a fiduciary relationship exists when “one person has reposed a special confidence in another to the extent that the parties do not deal with each other on equal terms, either because of an overmastering dominance on one side or weakness, dependence or justifiable trust, on the other.” In re Clark’s Estate, 359 A.2d 777, 781 (Pa. 1976) (internal quotation marks and citation omitted); see also Silver v. Silver, 219 A.2d 659, 662 (Pa. 1966) (“Although no precise formula has been devised to ascertain the existence of a confidential relationship, it has been said that such a r…
discussed Cited "see, e.g." The City of Philadelphia v. Bank of America Corporation
S.D.N.Y. · 2020 · signal: see also · confidence medium
Pa. Jan. 14, 1992); see also Baker, 440 F. Supp. 2d at 414 (noting that a confidential relationship “exists whenever one occupies toward another such a position of advisor or counselor as reasonably to inspire confidence that he will act in good faith for the other’s interest” (quoting Silver v. Silver, 219 A.2d. 659, 662 (Pa. 1966)).
Retrieving the full opinion text from the archive…
Silver
v.
Silver, Appellant
Appeal, 366.
Supreme Court of Pennsylvania.
May 24, 1966.
219 A.2d 659
Lee JB. Sacks, with him Samuel I, Sacks, for appellant., Sidney E. Her old, for appellee.
Bell, C.J., Musmanno, Jones, Cohen, Eagen, O'Brien and Roberts.
Cited by 69 opinions  |  Published

Opinion by

Mr. Justice Roberts,

This appeal arises from a suit in equity instituted by Esther Silver against her son, Aaron Silver, and the estate of her deceased son, Jack Silver, seeking to have a constructive trust imposed upon certain realty allegedly transferred to the co-defendants subject to an oral promise to reconvey the property upon request.

The facts, as found by the chancellor and supported by the record, [3] establish that in May of 1952, Mrs. Silver, a widow, was the sole owner of the property here in dispute. Intending to remarry, and fearful that the property might pass to the heirs of her husband-to-be rather than to her own children, she deeded the property to two of her sons, [1] [2] without consideration, one week prior to her marriage in June of 1952. Although the deed was absolute on its face, and no written agreement or memorandum made, it was orally agreed that the property would continue to belong to Mrs. Silver, and that the two sons whose names appeared on the deed would reconvey the property to her whenever she requested.

In 1958, Mrs. Silver was again widowed, but it was not until after the death of her son Jack, in 1963, that she requested the return of the p3*operty in accordance with the oral promise to reconvey. However, the administratrix of the estate of Jack Silver denied knowledge of such a promise and refused to reconvey the property. Mrs. Silver then instituted the present suit[*536] in equity. After hearing, the chancellor concluded that the facts warranted the imposition of a constructive trust, and entered a decree nisi directing that the property be reconveyed to plaintiff. Only the administratrix filed exceptions to this adjudication, the other son, Aaron, having admitted the oral promise to re-convey and having expressed his willingness to comply with the order. Following argument before the court en banc, the exceptions were dismissed and the decree made final. This appeal by the administratrix followed.

Appellant first contends that the court erred in imposing a constructive trust, and that, if such a trust were not imposed, the Statute of Frauds, Act of April 22, 1856, P. L. 532, 33 P.S. §2, [3] would preclude the enforcement of the oral promise to reconvey. It is clear, however, that if the chancellor was correct in imposing a constructive trust, the Statute of Frauds would not be operative in this case, since a constructive trust, being implied by law, is expressly excluded from the operation of the Statute. Metzger v. Metzger, 338 Pa. 564, 14 A. 2d 285 (1940); Hatcher v. Hatcher, 264 Pa. 105, 107 Atl. 660 (1919); McCloskey v. McCloskey, 205 Pa. 491, 55 Atl. 180 (1903); Seichristfs Appeal, 66 Pa. 237 (1871). The first issue to be considered, therefore, is whether the facts as found by the chancellor justify the imposition of a constructive trust.

[*537] It is settled that where property is conveyed to one in a confidential relationship to the transferor, subject to a promise to reconvey which is subsequently breached, equity will intervene by imposing a constructive trust to prevent the unjust enrichment of one so abusing a confidential relationship. Metzger v. Metzger, supra; Hatcher v. Hatcher, supra; Restatement 2d, Trusts, §44 (1959); Restatement, Restitution, §160 (1937); Bogert, Trusts & Trustees §471 (2d ed. 1960) ; see 4 Scott, Trusts §462.1 (2d ed. 1956). It is necessary that both a confidential relationship and reliance upon a promise to reconvey induced by that relationship be shown. [4] Our review convinces us that the chancellor correctly concluded, on the basis of his factual findings, that these elements were present in this case.

Although no precise formula has been devised to ascertain the existence of a confidential relationship, it has been said that such a relationship is not confined to a particular association of parties but exists whenever one occupies toward another such a position of ad-visor or counselor as reasonably to inspire confidence that he will act in good faith for the other’s interest. Stewart v. Hooks, 372 Pa. 542, 547, 94 A. 2d 756, 758 (1953); Brunier v. Stanert, 369 Pa. 178, 185, 85 A. 2d 130, 134 (1952). The record establishes that Jack and Aaron Silver had such a relationship with their mother.

While the mere fact of a mother-son relationship, without more, will not support a finding of a confidential[*538] relationship, [5] it is a factor which cannot be ignored and which, under the circumstances of this case, colors the nature of the disputed transaction. Cf. Metzger v. Metzger, supra; Hatcher v. Hatcher, supra. Mrs. Silver was a widow. Prior to the disputed conveyance, she took no active part in the management of this property, but rather relied upon Jack and Aaron to collect the rent, to pay the taxes, to manage the property and to remit to her whatever excess rent money remained after these obligations had been met.

Moreover, at the time the disputed conveyance occurred, Mrs. Silver was deeply concerned about the ultimate disposition of her property due to her impending marriage. Under these circumstances, it ivas only natural that she turn to her sons, both of whom she trusted and relied upon, for guidance and advice. And it was at the suggestion of her sons that the property was placed in their names.

We must therefore conclude, as did the chancellor and the court en banc, that the natural confidence inspired by the mother-son relationship, along with the evidence that the mother depended upon her sons for advice and customarily abided by their decisions in matters of this sort, as well as the particular state of mind of Mrs. Silver at the time of the conveyance, adequately establishes that a confidential relationship existed. It must also be concluded that it was this relationship which led Mrs. Silver to rely upon the promise of her sons that they would reconvey the property upon request. When this promise was breached, equity quite properly imposed a constructive trust and ordered the property reconveyed to plaintiff.

Appellant asserts in the alternative that even if elements justifying the imposition of a constructive trust are here present, an action seeking to have such a trust[*539] imposed is barred by the statute of limitations contained in the Act of April 22, 1856, P. L. 532, §6, 12 P.S. §83, which provides: “No . . . action [shall] be maintained ... to enforce, any implied . . . trust as to realty, but within five years after such . . . trust accrued . . . .”

Appellant contends that the trust “accrued” at the time of the original conveyance in 1952. Thus, it is argued that the five year period during which this action could be maintained expired in 1957. Although authority for the predicate of this argument, i.e., that the trust “accrues” at the time the property is conveyed, may be found in Gast v. Engel, 369 Pa. 137, 141, 85 A. 2d 403, 405 (1952), we are not persuaded by that reasoning.

One who stands in a confidential relationship to a grantor does not become a trustee ex maleficio immediately upon the transfer of property to him. This fiduciary obligation is imposed only upon the breach of his promise to reconvey the property. Metzger v. Metzger, supra at 569, 14 A. 2d at 288; Hatcher v. Hatcher, supra at 109, 107 Atl. at 661. It is at this point that equity, in order to prevent the unjust enrichment which would result from such breach, will construct a trust and impose the duty to return the property to the grantor. Since no constructive trust exists until the grantee breaches his promise to reconvey, it is our view that the statute could not begin to run until that time, or until the grantor should reasonably know of the grantee’s wrongful retention of the property. By starting the statute of limitations running at that time, rather than at the time the conveyance is first made, one enjoying a confidential relationship will not be able to profit by concealing, for a five year period, his intention to dishonor his promise to reconvey property entrusted to him. Thus, conduct which starts the statute running on actions to enforce constructive[*540] trusts arising from the abuse of a confidential relationship will be made consistent with conduct which commences the statute of limitations for actions to enforce constructive trusts arising from actual fraud. [6] In addition, the view we here take is in line with that which prevails in other jurisdictions. [7]

In the present case, no demand was made for the return of the property during the lifetime of the deceased son, and the promise to reconvey, therefore, was not breached until his estate refused to convey the property to plaintiff -after his death in 1963. The present action is thus well within the five year statutory period and the defense of the statute of limitations was properly rejected.

We have carefully considered the other contentions raised by appellant and find them to be equally without merit.

Decree affirmed. Each party .to pay own costs.

' Mr. Justice Cohen concurs in the result. Mr. Chief Justice Bell and Mr. Justice Eagen dissent.
1

Our review clearly establishes that, there is adequate evidence to support the findings of the chancellor, and we therefore accept, them as binding. See DePaul v. Melrose Country Club, 418 Pa. 611, 613, 213 A. 2d 270, 271 (1965); Schwartz v. Urban Redevelopment Auth., 416 Pa. 503, 508, 206 A. 2d 789, 791 (1965).

2

Although Mrs. Silver had five children, it was agreed that the deed would only contain the names of Jack and Aaron.

3

The Statute of Frauds provides: “All declarations or creations of trusts or confidences of any lands, tenements or hereditaments, and ail grants and assignments thereof, shall be manifested by writing, signed by the party holding the title thereof, or by his last will in writing, or else to be void: Provided, That where any conveyance shall be made of any lands or tenements by which a trust or confidence shall or may arise or result by implication or construction of law, or be transferred or extinguished by act or operation of law, then and in every such case such trust or confidence shall be of the like force and effect as if this act had not been passed,” Act of April 22, 1856, P. L, 532, §4, 33 P,S, §2.

4

In discussing this point in Metzger v. Metzger, 338 Pa. 564, 568, 14 A. 2d 285, 287 (1940), the Court stated, “these cases involve, as Mr. Justice Oabdozo pointed out in the leading case of Sinclair v. Purdy, 235 N.Y. 245, quoting from Wood v. Kabe, 96 N.Y. 414, ‘a confidence induced, not by the bare promise of another, but by the bare promise and the confidential relation conjoined’.”

5

See, e.g., Gerner v. Kespelher, 351 Pa, 649, 41 A. 2d 860 (1945).

6

The Act of April 22, 1856, P. L. 532, §6, 12 P.S. §83, contains the following proviso: “Provided, That as to any one affected with a trust, by reason of his fraud, the said limitation shall begin to run only from the discovery thereof, - or when, by reasonable diligence, the party defrauded might have discovered the same. . . .”

7

See Comments, The Confidential Relationship Theory of Constructive Trusts — An Exception to the Statute of Frauds, 29 Ford-ham L. Rev. 561, p. 570, n.64 (1961).