Equine Activity Liability: Legal Exposure and Contract Solutions

This program provides attorneys with a comprehensive overview of liability issues and risk-management strategies within the equine industry. The course explores the structure and limitations of Equine Activity Liability Acts, common law theories of liability, and the practical steps professionals can take to reduce exposure when horses, riders, and the public intersect. Through real-world examples, the program highlights how injuries, contracts, and facility practices interact to create or prevent legal risk.

In addition, the program examines the role of well-crafted contracts in protecting equine businesses and their clients. Participants will learn how boarding, training, leasing, sales, and liability-waiver agreements can serve as both shields and strategic tools when disputes arise. This program will benefit attorneys who counsel equine professionals, handle premises liability or recreational-activity cases, or advise clients operating within agribusiness and animal-related industries.

Learning Objectives: 

1. Identify the key provisions and limitations of Equine Activity Liability Acts (EALAs)

2. Assess common sources of risk within equine facilities and evaluate strategies to reduce exposure

3. Draft or revise equine industry contracts to enhance enforceability

4. Analyze real-world equine activity scenarios to determine liability and applicable defenses

5. Advise equine professionals on best practices for using contracts and statutory protections