Equine Law

Horse sales, purchases and loans

We can advise on the steps you need to take when owning or acquiring a horse, taking custody of one (for example, on a loan, on a lease, or on trial) or selling a horse. This can include advice when it should be vetted, liability for expenses and other terms that should be committed to writing. We can also advise on the terms of purchase at auction, including soundness and the rights of examination.

No matter how careful individuals or professionals are, they can sometimes find themselves in disputes and our equine solicitors are here to support you should one arise.

Equine property matters

Keeping horses typically involves compliance with planning regulations. For example, purchasing a field from a farmer to keep some horses in for leisure purposes will be deemed to cause a ‘material change’ to the land. You will therefore need to seek planning permission. 

We have the experience to advise you on equine property law matters such as this, as well as any related property enquiries for rural land and business tenancies.

Bespoke agreements and contracts

The sale, purchase, or loan of a horse usually involves agreements or contracts of some kind. They are also often required in relation to the subsequent keeping, grazing, and stabling of a horse, whether you have your own facilities or keep it on someone else’s land or livery. We can advise you on such matters, including what to do when they go wrong.

Other contracts we can produce or advise on include sponsorship agreements, stud/nomination agreements, syndicates, schooling, and rider/jockey agreements. Disputes can often arise with such contracts, which is where our legal team can help.

Negligence claims

Professional negligence is not something we like to think will happen, but unfortunately incidents do occur in which a professional’s error leads to loss or harm. In relation to horses, the most common example of professional negligence is poor equine veterinary advice that leads to injury or death.

Should the unfortunate happen, we can be there to support you and guide you through the necessary steps to receiving compensation.

Personal injury

While equine sports can be extremely exciting, there’s always the risk of injury. Whether you’re hurt working, leading, exercising or grooming a horse, you may be entitled to compensation if this is down to negligence on the owner’s behalf. 

If you have been involved in an accident involving a horse, don’t hesitate to contact the team here at Setfords to discuss the potential for a claim. 

Other areas of equine law

Our equine lawyers can also assist with other areas, including:

• Disputes and negligence claims against vets, farriers, and other equine professionals
• Transport regulations
• Obtaining an injunction
• Equine charities
• Horse insurance claims and disputes
• Public liability cases
• Horse passport regulations
• Governing body representation
• Division of horses and equine property upon divorce or separation