In the equine industry, Florida has its own unique set of benefits and challenges. To better understand the impact necessity of equine law in Florida, you should first understand the nature of this compelling industry.
According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the Florida horse industry boasts some powerful equine stats, including:
- The Florida horse industry generates $6.8 Billion annually
- The industry includes 244,200 jobs
- Florida has a horse population of over 385,000
- Horses, including ownership, equine associations, profit-making organizations, and tourism by riders and spectators, combine for an $11.7 Billion annual economic impact
- The Ocala Breeders Sales recorder over $1 Billion in Thoroughbred horse sales from 2010 to 2018
Today, Ocala, Florida is considered to be the horse capital of the world. Every breed of horse is represented here, and the state is home to many nationally-recognized equine events and facilities.
Horse Breeding as a Business in Florida
Thoroughbred breeding is big business in Florida. According to ocalamarion.com, more than 600 Thoroughbred horse farms have produced dozens of national champions, Kentucky Derby winners, Breeders’ Cup champions, and more.
The business of horse breeding and sales dates back to the mid-20th century, in which Carl G. Rose developed the first Thoroughbred horse farm in Florida. Since then, horse lovers have gathered from near and far to celebrate horses.
Equine Concerns in the State
If you participate in equine purchasing for business or for sport, you understand the unique advantages and challenges of the Florida marketplace. Hundreds of breeders promise championship-quality horses, yet many do not deliver as advertised.
Did you know that Florida has the most comprehensive statutory and common law addressing equine fraud? You may even be familiar with the “Equine Lemon Law”, another law that is unique to Florida.
The truth is, equine fraud in Florida is a broad concern. Deceptive and fraudulent practices including undisclosed commissions, secret alliances between sellers, owners, agents, trainers, and sponsors run rampant. That’s why it is critically important to work with a professional equine attorney before buying – or selling – a horse in Florida. An equine attorney will help you navigate the horse purchase process to ensure that you are covered in the case of attempted fraud of deceptive practices.
How Can an Equine Attorney Help a Horse Breeder or Seller?
Anytime a horse is bred or sold in Florida, a contract is created that identifies the terms of the agreement. An equine purchase is not taken lightly by consumers. Buyers want to ensure that they are receiving high quality animals that fit their needs, whether for work, sport, or pleasure.
Horse breeders and sellers face many unique legal challenges. Breeders may partner with others outside of their organization to make their dream a reality. Before solidifying a deal, ensure that your legal agreements are in order. As an equine seller, you handle transactions with clients regularly. These sales may not always go as anticipated. In both these instances, an equine attorney can help your business stay protected.
Many breeders also offer stable services, training, and more. When entering into relationships with clients, ensure that you take on minimal liability in the case of accidents or other events. An equine attorney can help.
Equine Farm Owners
The day-to-day hustle of operating a horse farm can feel overwhelming at times. Keeping horses on your property has some built-in liabilities. When you introduce humans into the equation, you want to be sure that you maintain limited liability across every avenue.
Many farm owners bring in income by offering riding or training services on their property. When you work with trainers onsite as part of your farm business, be sure to have them sign a release that protects you from liability in the event of injuries on your property – whether they be injuries sustained to horses, trainers, or riders.
Horse Leasing
Leasing a horse is quickly becoming one of the most popular ways for riders and horse lovers to experience stable life. Farm owners or horse breeders may lease their own horses for a fee to help with the expense of ownership. Riders pay for additional riding time and the owner benefits from extra care and attention given to the horse as well. Negotiating horse lease terms can be a hassle. When you leave it to the professionals, you know that you will be protected and taken care of from every aspect.
How Can an Equine Attorney Help a Horse Buyer?
Horse purchases in Florida are a common and important part of the commerce landscape in the state. If you’re considering purchasing a horse from a farm, you want to select a reputable breeder or farm that you can trust. When it comes time to sign on the dotted line, ensure that your rights are being addressed in the paperwork. Hire an equine attorney to review the sales documents.
Communications between the horse’s owner or breeder, along with input from trainers or agents, can be stressful. Particularly in areas of competition sales and breeding horse sales, you want a partner who knows the ins and outs of the process. Once you’ve selected the horse that you desire, let a professional step in to handle the rest.
At Lubliner Law, we have the expertise in Florida equine law. We offer services in a variety of equine areas, including:
- Equine purchasing and contract review
- Stall/Stable purchasing and leasing
- Equine leases
- Boarding, breeding, and training agreements
- Sales disputes and equine fraud
- Equine insurance
We welcome your questions and look forward to serving you. To get started and learn more about how our equine attorneys can help your situation, call us at 561-207-2018 or email info@lubliner-law.com. We’re here to help!
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