Because horse ownership comes with such a large amount of investment and responsibility, there is a great amount of different types of contracts and agreements that come along with it. Regardless of the specific industry, whether its hunter/jumpers, dressage, eventing, or any type of Western pleasure and gaming, all disciplines should be familiar with the various aspects of equine law. Because many people in the horse industry still buy, sell, board, train, lease, or breed horses, it’s important that people recognize the importance of using written contracts and agreements. “One size fits all” rarely applies when equine matters are involved due to the fact that state laws can vary significantly. In recent years, state laws regulating equine activities and transactions have become more diverse than ever and using a lawyer that is experienced with your state’s specific equine laws is vital.
Common Areas of Litigation
Whether you’re an owner, rider, breeder, or another equine professional, it’s important to understand the importance of contracts and agreements. The most litigated areas of equine law typically include:
- Lease Agreements
- Breeding Contracts
- Syndication Agreements
- Purchase and Sale Agreements
- Installment Sale Agreements
- Equine Real Estate and Ranch Matters
- Tax Planning
- Equine Insurance Claims
- Corporations and Partnerships
How to Protect Yourself Against Litigation
These are just a few of the many equine matters that are most commonly brought to the courtroom. No matter the discipline, breed of horse, or level of profession, you should always consult with an equine law professional before going forward with any of the areas listed above. By consulting with an equine law professional, you can lower or eliminate your chances of getting into a legal dispute and protect yourself against any future litigation. While hiring an equine lawyer may cost a bit more money up front, you can rest easy knowing you’re protected… and avoid paying a large sum of money in the long run in the event of a dispute.