
Equine lawyers don’t sue horses—but what, exactly, do they do? And why does it matter? Horses and the Law brings you an in-depth look at the important legal issues affecting horse owners and exhibitors today, including liability, sales and bloodstock agents, contracts and other business concerns, taxes, the animal rights vs. animal welfare debate, and legislation. If you agree with something, or even if you don’t, feel free to comment. Just keep it tasteful. And remember that Horses and the Law does not—and cannot—address your specific legal problems, and is not a source of legal advice. For that, you should contact your own attorney.
Why Individual Horse Owners Need Liability Insurance
As an equine attorney, I'm often asked to give presentations on equine liability. It's a very broad topic, of course, so I try to tailor it to the audience. Many of the audience members are individual horse owners. Here are some common areas of concern about...
Equine Activity Statutes: Fact and Fiction
As of 2013, only four states--California, Maryland, Nevada and New York--do not have equine activity statutes. Do equine activity statutes offer real protection for horse people? If so, what protection do they provide, and are there any traps for the unwary?What...
Liability Releases: Not Worth the Paper They’re Written on? Think Again!
Many boarding stables and other equine businesses require customers and guests to sign liability release forms. But we've all heard that "liability releases aren't worth the paper they're written on." Is that true? Will those release forms actually protect the...
Should You Breed Your Mare? Add Up These Costs First!
This time of year, you might be considering breeding your mare in the spring. Maybe you've even found the perfect stallion to cross on your mare--he's gorgeous, he has an amazing pedigree and he's a world champion. Not only that, he's quiet and kind. The stud fee...
Selling a Horse on Trial: 10 Tips to Lower Your Risk
A trial period can ensure a horse fits into his new family. Photo: Photos.com In certain segments of the horse industry, it is fairly common for the buyer to take a horse home (or to a trainer's) and try the horse out before making a final decision. Frequently, the...

I Bought a Lame Horse: Now What?
Find out what legal recourse you might have against a seller after you buy a lame horse.